Alyansky Misha (1897-1941)

Alyansky Misha (real name: Aisik Leibovich Hait) (Born 1897 – Died 1941, exact locations unknown)

Violinist, Saxophonist, Conductor of Variety Orchestras

Misha Alyansky was a renowned violinist, saxophonist, and conductor who played in Riga and Jūrmala from 1921 to 1941. He performed in many well-known restaurants and dance halls, including: A.T., Alhambra, Corso, Lido, Mascotte, Rococo.

For several seasons, he played at Otto Schwarz's restaurant-dancing hall in Majori during the summer and at Otto Schwarz’s café in Riga during the winter.

International Career

Alyansky had a highly successful career in Western Europe, performing in the top dance halls and cabarets:

1933 – Toured Germany under the name M. Khait

1937 – Toured Switzerland (including Basel) with a Riga variety orchestra under his direction

1938–1940 – Played in the Salamonsky Circus Orchestra

Musical Style and Legacy

Alyansky was both a conductor and an organizer, known for his passionate violin playing. He was considered one of the finest variety musicians in Riga during the 1930s and was a beloved figure among the city’s audiences. His diverse repertoire included jazz, classical, and contemporary music.

During his 1936 benefit concert, he performed George Gershwin's “Rhapsody in Blue” in a jazz orchestra arrangement.

Fate and Death

In 1941 Misha Alyansky was killed in Riga ghetto.