Composer

:

Niels Gade

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1853

Average_duration

:

45:17

Movement_count

:

7

Movement ....

Elverskud, Op. 30 is a cantata composed by Niels Gade, a Danish composer, in 1853. The piece is based on a Danish ballad of the same name, which tells the story of a young woman who is seduced by the King of the Elves and bears him a child. The cantata is divided into six movements and features a solo soprano, a male chorus, and an orchestra. The first movement, "Elverskud," sets the scene with a haunting melody played by the orchestra. The soprano enters and sings of the young woman's encounter with the King of the Elves. The male chorus then enters and sings of the dangers of the forest and the power of the elves. The second movement, "Heksevisen," is a solo for the soprano. She sings of the witches who have cursed her and the child she bears. The third movement, "Kongens Datter," is a duet between the soprano and a male soloist. They sing of the King's daughter, who has fallen in love with the young woman's child. The fourth movement, "Ridderens Sang," is a solo for the male soloist. He sings of his love for the King's daughter and his determination to win her hand. The fifth movement, "Kongens Søn af Norden," is a duet between the soprano and the male soloist. They sing of the King's son, who has come from the north to claim the young woman's child. The final movement, "Den danske Sang er en ung, blond Pige," is a rousing chorus for the male chorus. They sing of the beauty and strength of the Danish people and their determination to defend their land. Elverskud, Op. 30 is a powerful and emotional work that showcases Gade's skill as a composer. The haunting melodies and lush harmonies create a sense of mystery and magic, while the soloists and chorus bring the story to life. The piece is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Denmark and remains a beloved work in the classical repertoire.

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