September 2002 - Nr. 9
Summer Surprises
Anyone who knows me also knows that I am not a particular fan of popular music, especially not the "Deutsche-Schlager-Variety". In my defence I must say that it is not entirely my fault. I blame my parents who kept me away from such sounds and raised me on classical music instead. I did not even like the Beatles at the time of their comet-like ascent, I preferred Rhapsody in Blue.
This
summer I was surprised not once but twice by this so much neglected genre. I
went to listen to Pratrizius, a German "Schlagersänger" and entertainer if
there ever was one. And I must say: one does not have to be a fan of popular
German music to like what he does. He brought the audience to life in the
Danube Swabian Club in August.
The stories of his carrier sound like the who is who in German popular music history. He wrote not just for himself, but many very well known titles for other famous performers, some of which are experiencing a comeback on the charts.
Pratrizius
reminisced about his first trip to Canada, which was sponsored by Jürgen
Schulz and his wife of International Furs in Brampton. They like to think
back to those early times and still think he is a great guy now! And they
are right. His generosity knew no bounds that evening when he performed way
beyond the call of duty with 4 encores.
The
following night we went to Sauter’s Inn to listen to Regina, a Viennese
import, who also sang at the Alpine Festival. This was her 2nd
visit to Canada and her repertoire had changed completely.
Whereas
she used to interpret quite wonderfully other singer’s greatest hits she now
performs her own songs. They come from the heart and her charm and style
communicate the messages easily and with considerable showmanship. Stories
from her life, something everyone can relate to, because we all made similar
experiences. No wonder she was such a smash hit at the CNE.
So what I am saying is that I am now partially converted and
can be expected to listen more often to a "Schlager" or two.
Summertime is picnic time
Something
is in the make at the Hansa Club. The old historical building in the front
of the property has a new patio and plans are in the make to renovate the
premises from the inside. A renewed spirit has arrived at the club.
Volunteers are work
ing
on a revival operation. Congratulations!
The annual summer picnic was a smash hit with music, good food and games for the kids, even the little ones.
I
took a flight of fancy on the swing, feeling like a kid again myself. There
is nothing like this strange feeling of lightness in the head as you come
falling down, only to swing up again, and down…It is a feeling of a bit of
imminent danger, where anything might happen, where control is not totally
calculable.
Perhaps the club has finished the renos just in time for Brampton’s big birthday bash next year?! We shall keep you up to date.
See you around
Sybille Forster-Rentmeister
Comments to: sfr@echoworld.com
