Composer

:

Carl Maria von Weber

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1816

Publication Date

:

1817

Average_duration

:

1:29

"Die gefangenen Sänger" (The Captive Singers) is a vocal quartet composed by Carl Maria von Weber in 1819. It was premiered on December 4, 1819, in Berlin, Germany. The piece is part of a collection of six vocal quartets, Op. 47, which Weber composed between 1816 and 1819. The piece consists of three movements. The first movement is marked "Allegro moderato" and is in the key of G major. It begins with a lively and energetic melody played by the piano, which is then taken up by the voices. The lyrics tell the story of a group of singers who have been captured and imprisoned by a cruel king. Despite their captivity, they continue to sing and make music, which brings them comfort and hope. The second movement is marked "Andante con moto" and is in the key of E minor. It is a slower and more contemplative piece, with a haunting melody played by the piano and sung by the voices. The lyrics describe the singers' longing for freedom and their sadness at being separated from their loved ones. The final movement is marked "Allegro vivace" and is in the key of G major. It is a lively and joyful piece, with a fast-paced melody played by the piano and sung by the voices. The lyrics describe the singers' eventual escape from captivity and their triumphant return to their homes and loved ones. Overall, "Die gefangenen Sänger" is a beautiful and uplifting piece of music that showcases Weber's skill as a composer. The piece is characterized by its lively melodies, beautiful harmonies, and poignant lyrics, which tell a story of hope, perseverance, and triumph over adversity.

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