Hindemith's "Lustige Sinfonietta" pairs modernist technique with Christian Morgenstern's humorous poetry, creating music that's witty without being lightweight. Surprising harmonies and unexpected instrumental combinations bring absurdist verse to life. The "Rag Time" pieces show Hindemith's fascination with jazz, filtered through his modernist sensibility. This 1988 Wergo recording captures the lighter side of a composer sometimes perceived as austere, with performances that bring out humor and charm without sacrificing sophistication. An excellent introduction to Hindemith relaxing—proof that modernism and enjoyment aren't mutually exclusive.