Composer

:

Franz Liszt

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song

Compose Date

:

1849

Publication Date

:

1850

Average_duration

:

2:13

Franz Liszt's 'Gestorben war ich, S. 308' is a solo piano piece that was composed in 1860. The piece is part of a collection of songs by the German poet Heinrich Heine, which Liszt set to music for piano. The premiere of the piece is not well-documented, but it is believed to have been performed by Liszt himself in private concerts. 'Gestorben war ich' is a single-movement piece that is characterized by its melancholic and introspective mood. The piece is in the key of E-flat minor and is marked 'Adagio'. The opening bars of the piece feature a descending chromatic melody that sets the somber tone of the piece. The melody is then repeated in a higher register, accompanied by a simple arpeggiated chord progression. The middle section of the piece features a more agitated and dissonant melody, which is contrasted by a more lyrical and flowing section. The piece then returns to the opening melody, which is repeated with slight variations before coming to a quiet and introspective close. One of the most notable characteristics of 'Gestorben war ich' is its use of chromaticism and dissonance. Liszt employs these techniques to create a sense of tension and unease throughout the piece, which is only resolved in the final bars. The piece also features Liszt's signature virtuosic piano writing, with rapid arpeggios and complex chord progressions. Overall, 'Gestorben war ich, S. 308' is a haunting and introspective piece that showcases Liszt's mastery of the piano and his ability to convey complex emotions through music.

More....