The Comedian Harmonists

the long version

This is the first English language full biography of the Comedian Harmonists, a German vocal group. This ensemble was initially influenced by thejazz-influenced Revelers, the most popular American vocal group in the 1920s. The Comedian Harmonists, building on that foundation, introduced new new techniques in both singing and stage presentation as well as a brilliant ability to imitate a variety of musical instruments. Friedman tells the compelling story of their humble beginnings, rise to international fame and their repression by the Nazis. The Comedian Harmonists included both Jewish and non-Jewish members. However all of them suffered from Nazi antisemitic policies.