Gottfried von Einem was one of the great composers that played a major role in rebuilding the Austrian music scene post-1945, following the devastating cultural policies of Austro-fascism. These policies were conspicuously hostile to modern trends, even more so than those of the Nazis. We remain indebted to von Einem, not least for his rescuing many scores by banned colleagues from destruction. Catchy thematic and melodic ideas, sharply accentuated rhythms, strong gestural and dance-like energy, a distinct feeling for differentiated timbres: these elements determined Gottfried von Einems musical voice from an early age, and remained his hallmark throughout his life.