The Operetta
Marcel Prawy not only paved the way for my development into a heldentenor, but he also kindled a deep passion for operetta in me that has endured to this day. A true witness to the 20th century, Prawy experienced its dramatic twists and turns as well as its everlasting musical beauty. He also used his enthusiasm for operetta, coupled with an almost inexhaustible knowledge, to bring forgotten operetta composers and their works back into the limelight - not only honoring their music and skills, but also shedding light on their suffering during the dark times of forced emigration in the 1930s and 1940s.
My numerous musical encounters with Marcel Prawy, which are documented in the many letters he wrote to me with anecdotes, advice, unforgettable comments and recommendations, remain unforgettable to me.
Through my friendly relationship with the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra, I was able to create my own ensemble, "Herbert Lippert and his Philharmonic Friends". Our aim was to revive the era of the silver and golden operetta.
In our programs we created a fascinating dialogue between unknown operetta songs and well-known melodies, resulting in a wonderful fusion of tradition and modernity.
"OMIA - Operetta Made In Austria", a documentary-historical, multimedia and innovative project that unites young musicians and established singers, is a continuation of these efforts. It is a living testimony to my undiminished love of operetta and a commitment to the cultural diversity and historical depth of this genre.
