Composer

:

Franz Schubert

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song

Compose Date

:

Aug 24, 1817

Average_duration

:

3:07

"Abschied, D. 578" is a lied composed by Franz Schubert in 1817. It is also known as "Die Nacht" (The Night) and is one of Schubert's most famous and beloved songs. The song is written for a solo voice and piano accompaniment. The premiere of "Abschied" is not known, but it was likely performed in a private setting for Schubert's friends and colleagues. The song is part of a larger collection of songs known as Schwanengesang (Swan Song), which was published posthumously in 1829. "Abschied" is divided into two movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement is slow and mournful, while the second is faster and more lively. The song is written in the key of C minor and has a melancholic and introspective quality. The lyrics of "Abschied" were written by Johann Mayrhofer, a close friend and frequent collaborator of Schubert. The poem describes a night in which the speaker is filled with a sense of longing and sadness. The first movement begins with the lines "The night is silent, the streets are empty / In my heart there is only pain and longing." The second movement is more hopeful, with the speaker expressing a desire to leave behind their troubles and find peace. One of the most striking characteristics of "Abschied" is its use of musical motifs. The opening piano melody is repeated throughout the song, creating a sense of unity and coherence. The song also features a recurring theme in the vocal line, which is used to convey the speaker's sense of longing and sadness. Overall, "Abschied, D. 578" is a beautiful and poignant song that showcases Schubert's mastery of the art song form. Its haunting melody and introspective lyrics have made it a favorite among performers and audiences alike.

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