Europe had experienced the emergence of extremism from both the rise of Communism in the Soviet Union and National Socialism in Germany, which paved the way for the rise of the Nazi Party.

During the 1930s, both countries were being led by individuals whose personal ambitions and autocratic leadership styles would have devastating effects on the future map of Europe. In the Soviet Union, under Josef Stalin (from Georgia), this led to the 'purges' which set about eliminating those who showed dissident tendencies and, in its most extreme manifestation, the exile of thousands of artists, writers and musicians (as well as ordinary citizens) to the Gulags (labour camps) of Siberia. Most did not survive.

In Germany, the rise of Adolf Hitler (born in Austria) had just as devastating results with the rise of anti-semitic feelings leading to severe anti-Jewish laws. Hitler's grotesque vision of a totally Aryan society eventually led to the implementation of policies which would seek to annihilate the Jewish communities in both Eastern and Western Europe. Those who were lucky enough to escape left for countries such as England and the USA, where they contributed greatly to the cultural heritage. The majority were unable to flee and most were to die in the concentration camps.

Whether musicians stayed in Europe or left, their compositions were inevitably touched by the unstable politics of their time.