Composer

:

Franz Strauss

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Chamber Music

Publication Date

:

before 1873

Average_duration

:

4:41

Franz Strauss, a German horn player and composer, wrote "Empfindungen am Meere" (Sensations by the Sea) for horn and piano, Op. 12. The piece was composed in 1853 and premiered in Munich the same year. It consists of three movements and has a total duration of approximately 15 minutes. The first movement, "Am Meer" (By the Sea), is marked Adagio and is in the key of F major. The horn introduces the main theme, which is then echoed by the piano. The music evokes the peacefulness and tranquility of the sea, with the horn playing long, lyrical lines and the piano providing a gentle accompaniment. The movement ends quietly, with the horn playing a soft, sustained note. The second movement, "In der Hütte" (In the Hut), is marked Allegro and is in the key of A minor. This movement is more lively and playful than the first, with the horn and piano engaging in a lively dialogue. The horn plays a series of rapid, virtuosic runs, while the piano provides a rhythmic accompaniment. The movement ends with a flourish, with the horn and piano playing together in unison. The final movement, "Am Strand" (On the Beach), is marked Andante and is in the key of F major. This movement is more introspective than the previous two, with the horn playing a mournful melody over a simple piano accompaniment. The music gradually builds in intensity, with the horn playing more and more passionately. The movement ends with a return to the peacefulness of the first movement, with the horn playing a soft, sustained note. Overall, "Empfindungen am Meere" is a beautiful and expressive work that showcases the lyrical qualities of the horn. The piece is characterized by its long, flowing melodies, virtuosic runs, and gentle accompaniment. It is a popular work in the horn repertoire and is frequently performed in recitals and competitions.

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