The article discusses the controversial legacy of conductor Herbert von Karajan, particularly focusing on his membership in the NSDAP during the Nazi regime. Historian Michael Wolffsohn, commissioned by the Karajan Foundation, conducted an independent investigation into Karajan's involvement with the Nazis, which has led to his labeling as a 'devout Nazi' by some. Wolffsohn's findings are compiled in his upcoming book entitled "Genie und Gewissen: Herbert von Karajan zwischen Musik und Nationalsozialismus," set to be released on February 16.

Wolffsohn emphasizes that Karajan's entry into the NSDAP in 1935 was a necessary step for securing his position as the General Music Director at the Aachen City Theater, highlighting the pressures musicians faced at the time to align with the regime. Despite the singular act of joining the party, the discourse surrounding Karajan remains contentious, as allegations persist that he was not only a member but shared ideological sympathies with Nazi principles. Wolffsohn's work aims to shed light on these implications while scrutinizing the cultural and historical context that enveloped Karajan's career.

The investigation into Karajan's past is significant not just for understanding his legacy within classical music but also for contemplating the moral responsibilities of artists during oppressive political regimes. The discussions around these themes contribute to ongoing debates about the relationship between art and ideology, inviting readers to reconsider how historical figures are remembered in light of their political affiliations and actions during turbulent times.