Composer

:

Felix Mendelssohn

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song

Compose Date

:

May 14, 1834

Average_duration

:

2:11

"Mailied" is a song composed by Felix Mendelssohn in 1832. It premiered in Leipzig on May 1, 1832, and was published in 1833 as part of his collection of songs, Op. 47. The song is set to a poem by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, which celebrates the arrival of spring and the joy of love. The poem is written in the form of a dialogue between a young man and a young woman, who express their love for each other and their delight in the beauty of nature. The song is in the key of G major and is written for a solo voice and piano accompaniment. It is divided into three sections, each of which corresponds to a different part of the poem. The first section is marked "Allegro con fuoco" and is characterized by its lively, energetic rhythm and bright, optimistic melody. The second section is marked "Andante con moto" and is more lyrical and introspective, reflecting the more reflective mood of the poem. The final section returns to the lively, energetic character of the opening, bringing the song to a joyful and exuberant conclusion. One of the most striking characteristics of "Mailied" is its use of word painting, in which the music reflects the meaning of the text. For example, the opening of the song features a rapid, ascending melody that captures the sense of excitement and anticipation expressed in the poem. Similarly, the more reflective second section is marked by a more subdued, introspective melody that reflects the more contemplative mood of the text. Overall, "Mailied" is a beautiful and joyful celebration of spring and love, and a testament to Mendelssohn's skill as a composer of art songs.

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