Composer

:

Johannes Brahms

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song: Art Song

Compose Date

:

May 1876

Average_duration

:

3:12

"Alte Liebe, Op. 72/1" is a song composed by Johannes Brahms in 1877. It was premiered on November 22, 1877, in Vienna, Austria. The song is part of a collection of five songs called "Vier ernste Gesänge" (Four Serious Songs), which Brahms composed towards the end of his life. "Alte Liebe" is the first song in the collection and is written for a low voice and piano. The text is taken from the Bible, specifically from the book of Ecclesiastes, chapter 3, verses 1-8. The text speaks about the inevitability of change and the passing of time, and how everything has its own time and season. The song is in a slow tempo and is marked "sehr langsam und ausdrucksvoll" (very slow and expressive). It is in the key of C minor and has a melancholic and introspective character. The piano accompaniment is sparse and simple, with long sustained chords and occasional arpeggios. The song is divided into two main sections, each with its own distinct melody and mood. The first section is in a minor key and has a mournful and nostalgic quality. The second section is in a major key and has a more hopeful and uplifting character. The two sections are connected by a short transitional passage. The vocal part is written in a declamatory style, with long phrases and a wide range of dynamics. The text is set in a straightforward manner, with no elaborate vocal ornamentation or melismatic passages. The emphasis is on the clarity and expressiveness of the text. Overall, "Alte Liebe, Op. 72/1" is a poignant and reflective song that captures the essence of Brahms' late style. It is a testament to his mastery of the art song genre and his ability to convey deep emotions through music.

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