Composer

:

Franz Schubert

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song

Compose Date

:

Jul 1817

Average_duration

:

3:10

Iphigenia, D. 573, Op. 98/3 is a dramatic cantata composed by Franz Schubert in 1821. The piece is based on the Greek myth of Iphigenia, the daughter of Agamemnon, who was sacrificed to the goddess Artemis to ensure a safe journey for the Greek fleet to Troy. The cantata is divided into three movements and is scored for solo soprano, chorus, and orchestra. The first movement, "Iphigenia's Lament," begins with a mournful orchestral introduction that sets the somber tone for the piece. The soprano soloist enters with a plaintive melody, singing of her sorrow and despair at being sacrificed. The chorus enters later, echoing Iphigenia's lament and adding to the sense of mourning and tragedy. The second movement, "The Departure of the Greeks," is more upbeat and energetic, reflecting the departure of the Greek fleet for Troy. The orchestra plays a lively march, while the chorus sings of the bravery and determination of the Greek soldiers. The soprano soloist enters later, singing of her hope that the Greeks will be victorious and return home safely. The final movement, "Iphigenia's Sacrifice," is the most dramatic and intense of the three. The orchestra plays a tense and ominous introduction, foreshadowing the impending sacrifice. The chorus sings of the necessity of the sacrifice, while the soprano soloist pleads with her father to spare her life. The piece ends with a powerful chorus, singing of the sacrifice and the triumph of the Greek fleet. Overall, Iphigenia, D. 573, Op. 98/3 is a powerful and emotional work that showcases Schubert's skill as a composer of dramatic music. The piece premiered in Vienna in 1821 and has since become a staple of the choral repertoire.

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