Was Peter Herz thinking as he walked these streets? This plaque honors Peter Herz a man of words and music. It marks a place where he lived and created. Peter Herz was born in Vienna on January 18 1895. He died here on March 7 1987. Herz was a writer a librettist and a journalist. He left a lasting mark on Viennese culture.
Peter Herz’s talents spanned many genres. He wrote operetta texts for famous composers. These included Leo Ascher and Franz Lehár. Herz also wrote popular Viennese songs. Many became beloved classics. “In einem kleinen Cafe in Hernals” is one such song. “Schön ist so ein Ringelspiel” is another. Hermann Leopoldi set both to music. These songs capture the spirit of Vienna.
From 1938 to 1945 Peter Herz lived in exile in London. He fled due to his Jewish heritage. In London he founded the Blue Danube Club. This was a German-language cabaret. It provided a stage for exiled artists. After the war Herz returned to Vienna. He continued his writing career. He published novels and wrote screenplays. His memoirs “Gestern war ein schöner Tag” reflect on his life.
Peter Herz received many honors during his lifetime. The Silver Medal of Honor from the City of Vienna came in 1962. In 1964 he was awarded the title of Professor. The Theodor Körner Prize for Literature followed in 1965. In 1985 Herz received the Golden Rathausmann of the City of Vienna.
Herz’s legacy extends beyond his artistic achievements. He established the Peter Herz Fund. It helps needy artists. The fund supports members of AKM and Austro-Mechana. It offers quick and unbureaucratic assistance. Peter Herz’s generosity lives on through this fund.
Consider the words inscribed on the Peter Herz Plaque. They remind us of his contributions. They celebrate his life and work. The plaque serves as a lasting tribute. It honors a man who enriched Vienna’s cultural landscape.
Think of Peter Herz’s impact as you pass by. His songs still resonate. His stories continue to captivate. The Peter Herz Plaque stands as a reminder. It commemorates a true Viennese artist. His spirit remains alive in his work. The plaque is dedicated by AKM. It ensures his memory endures.