Composer

:

Robert Schumann

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song

Compose Date

:

1849

Average_duration

:

3:06

"Wer nie sein Brot mit Tränen ass" is a Lied composed by Robert Schumann as part of his song cycle "Dichterliebe" (A Poet's Love), Op. 48. The song was composed in 1840 and premiered the same year in Leipzig, Germany. The song is the fourth movement of the song cycle and is based on a poem by Heinrich Heine. The poem speaks of the hardships of life and the struggles of those who have to work hard to earn their bread. The title translates to "Who never ate his bread with tears" and the lyrics describe the pain and suffering of those who have to work hard to make a living. The song is set in the key of G minor and is marked "Langsam" (slowly). The piano accompaniment is somber and melancholic, reflecting the mood of the lyrics. The vocal line is expressive and emotive, with Schumann's use of chromaticism and dissonance adding to the emotional intensity of the song. The song is a prime example of Schumann's ability to capture the essence of a poem in his music. The melancholic and introspective nature of the song is typical of Schumann's style, and the use of chromaticism and dissonance adds to the emotional depth of the piece. Overall, "Wer nie sein Brot mit Tränen ass" is a powerful and moving song that captures the struggles of those who have to work hard to make a living. Schumann's ability to convey the emotions of the poem through his music is a testament to his skill as a composer.

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