Composer

:

Franz Liszt

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song

Compose Date

:

1842 - 1860

Publication Date

:

1843 - 1863

Average_duration

:

6:59

Franz Liszt's "Mignon's Lied: Kennst du das Land" is a song for voice and piano, composed in 1842. The song is based on a poem by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, which was originally written in his novel "Wilhelm Meister's Apprenticeship." The song was premiered in Weimar, Germany, in 1844. The song is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct characteristics. The first movement is marked "Andante con moto," and begins with a gentle, flowing melody in the piano. The voice enters with the first line of the poem, "Kennst du das Land, wo die Zitronen blühn?" The melody is simple and lyrical, with a sense of longing and nostalgia. The piano accompaniment is delicate and supportive, providing a gentle backdrop for the voice. The second movement is marked "Allegretto," and is more lively and playful than the first. The piano introduces a new melody, which is then taken up by the voice. The lyrics describe the beauty of the land, with its "blue sky" and "golden fruit." The melody is light and airy, with a sense of joy and wonder. The final movement is marked "Andante espressivo," and is the most emotional and dramatic of the three. The piano begins with a mournful melody, which is then echoed by the voice. The lyrics describe the speaker's longing for the land, and the pain of being separated from it. The melody is full of passion and intensity, with a sense of desperation and longing. Overall, "Mignon's Lied: Kennst du das Land" is a beautiful and evocative song, with a sense of nostalgia, longing, and wonder. Liszt's skillful use of melody and harmony, combined with Goethe's powerful poetry, creates a powerful emotional impact that has made the song a beloved classic of the Romantic era.

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