Composer

:

Johannes Brahms

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song

Compose Date

:

1878

Average_duration

:

5:00

Johannes Brahms composed 'Todessehnen, Op. 86/6' in 1882. The piece is part of his collection of six songs for voice and piano, Op. 86. The premiere of the collection took place on November 22, 1882, in Vienna, with Brahms himself accompanying the singer, Hermine Spies. 'Todessehnen' is the sixth and final song in the collection, and it is written for a low voice. The text is a poem by Felix Dahn, which describes the longing for death as a release from the pain and suffering of life. The music is somber and melancholic, with a slow tempo and a mournful melody. The piano accompaniment is sparse and understated, providing a simple harmonic framework for the voice. The song is divided into three distinct sections. The first section is marked 'Langsam und schmerzvoll' (slow and painful), and it sets the tone for the entire piece. The melody is introduced by the voice, with the piano providing a simple accompaniment. The second section is marked 'Etwas bewegter' (somewhat more animated), and it features a more complex melody and a more active piano accompaniment. The final section returns to the slow and mournful mood of the opening, with the voice descending to its lowest register as it sings the final lines of the poem. 'Todessehnen' is a prime example of Brahms' ability to convey deep emotion through his music. The piece is characterized by its somber mood, its simple yet powerful melody, and its understated piano accompaniment. It is a haunting and poignant work that captures the essence of the human experience, and it remains a beloved part of Brahms' oeuvre to this day.

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