Composer

:

Alphons Diepenbrock

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song

Compose Date

:

1910

Average_duration

:

4:40

"Zij Sluimert" is a composition for voice and piano by the Dutch composer Alphons Diepenbrock. It was composed in 1901 and premiered on December 16th of the same year in Amsterdam. The piece is part of a larger collection of songs by Diepenbrock, which are known for their rich harmonies and complex textures. "Zij Sluimert" is a single-movement piece that lasts approximately six minutes. The song is set to a poem by the Dutch poet Willem Kloos, and the text describes a woman who is sleeping peacefully. The music is characterized by its dreamy, ethereal quality, which is achieved through the use of soft, flowing melodies and delicate harmonies. The piece begins with a gentle piano introduction, which sets the mood for the rest of the song. The vocal line enters shortly after, and the singer delivers the text in a soft, hushed tone. The melody is simple and repetitive, with a gentle rise and fall that mimics the rhythm of breathing. As the song progresses, the piano accompaniment becomes more complex, with intricate arpeggios and cascading chords that create a sense of movement and fluidity. The vocal line also becomes more expressive, with soaring melodies and subtle shifts in dynamics that convey the emotions of the text. Overall, "Zij Sluimert" is a beautiful and evocative piece of music that showcases Diepenbrock's skill as a composer. Its delicate textures and rich harmonies make it a favorite among singers and pianists alike, and it remains a beloved work in the Dutch art song repertoire.

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