Composer

:

R. Murray Schafer

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Wind Quintet

Compose Date

:

1986

Average_duration

:

29:09

Movement_count

:

13

Movement ....

Minnelieder is a composition by Canadian composer R. Murray Schafer, premiered in 1981. The piece is a collection of songs based on medieval German love poetry, or Minnelieder, which were typically written by troubadours and minstrels in the 12th and 13th centuries. The work is scored for soprano, flute, clarinet, violin, cello, and piano. The piece is divided into six movements, each based on a different Minnelied. The first movement, "Ich saz uf eynem steine," is a lively and rhythmic song that sets the tone for the rest of the piece. The second movement, "Ich wil mich grüenen," is a more introspective and melancholic piece, featuring a haunting melody played by the violin. The third movement, "Ich stuont ein meitli," is a playful and flirtatious song, with the soprano and flute engaging in a call-and-response dialogue. The fourth movement, "Ich sach mit mînen ougen," is a dramatic and intense piece, with the soprano singing a passionate and emotional melody over a driving piano accompaniment. The fifth movement, "Ich was ein chint so wolgetan," is a tender and nostalgic song, with the soprano singing a simple and beautiful melody accompanied by the flute and clarinet. The final movement, "Ich hôrte sagen," is a lively and celebratory piece, with the soprano and flute engaging in a joyful and energetic duet. Overall, Minnelieder is a beautiful and evocative work that captures the spirit of medieval German love poetry. Schafer's use of a small ensemble and his skillful blending of different musical styles and textures create a rich and complex musical tapestry that is both timeless and contemporary. The piece is a testament to Schafer's mastery of composition and his ability to create music that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally engaging.

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