Composer

:

Alban Berg

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song Cycle

Compose Date

:

1912

Average_duration

:

11:10

Movement_count

:

5

Movement ....

Alban Berg's 'Altenberg Lieder, Op. 4' is a song cycle composed between 1911 and 1912. The premiere of the work took place in Vienna in 1913. The cycle consists of five songs, each with its own distinct character and mood. The texts for the songs were taken from poems by the Austrian poet Peter Altenberg. The first song, "Seele, wie bist du schöner," is a gentle and introspective piece that sets the tone for the rest of the cycle. The second song, "Sahst du nach dem Gewitterregen," is more dramatic and intense, with a sense of foreboding and unease. The third song, "Über die Grenzen des All," is a haunting and ethereal piece that explores themes of transcendence and the infinite. The fourth song, "Nacht," is a dark and brooding piece that evokes a sense of mystery and danger. The final song, "Hier ist Friede," is a peaceful and serene piece that brings the cycle to a close. The music of the 'Altenberg Lieder' is characterized by its rich harmonies, complex textures, and expressive melodies. Berg's use of chromaticism and dissonance creates a sense of tension and unease that is characteristic of the early 20th century musical style known as Expressionism. The vocal writing is highly virtuosic, requiring a singer with a wide range and a great deal of technical skill. Overall, the 'Altenberg Lieder' is a powerful and evocative work that showcases Berg's mastery of the art song genre. Its complex harmonies and expressive melodies make it a challenging but rewarding piece for both performers and listeners alike.

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