Krása, Hans

Hans Krása (1899-1944) was a Czech composer of Jewish descent whose musical talent became apparent in his youth. He studied at the Prague Conservatory and extended his education in Berlin under the tutelage of renowned composers, including Alexander Zemlinsky. Krása composed primarily in the spirit of modernism, and his works are influenced by both tradition and the innovative musical movements of his time. His best-known work is the children's opera "Brundibár", which premiered in Terezín in 1943 and has been repeated several times. This opera became a symbol of the hope and strength of children in the extremely difficult conditions of the concentration camp. Krása was deported to Auschwitz in 1944, where he was murdered. Despite his short life, his music remains a powerful testament to artistic resilience and humanity in times of oppression.