Composer

:

Franz Schubert

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song

Compose Date

:

May 12, 1816

Average_duration

:

1:43

"Klage an den Mond" (Lament to the Moon) is a lied composed by Franz Schubert in 1816. It was premiered in Vienna in the same year. The song is set to a poem by Johann Baptist Mayrhofer, a close friend and frequent collaborator of Schubert. The song is in the key of C minor and has a slow, mournful tempo. It is divided into three distinct sections, each with its own character and mood. The first section is marked by a simple, repetitive melody that sets the tone for the entire song. The second section is more complex, with a more varied melody and a more intense emotional expression. The final section returns to the simplicity of the opening, but with a more resigned and melancholy tone. The text of the song is a lament to the moon, which is seen as a symbol of unrequited love and unfulfilled longing. The speaker addresses the moon directly, asking it to shine on his beloved and bring her back to him. He expresses his despair and his sense of isolation, and he longs for the comfort of his lost love. The song is notable for its use of chromaticism, which creates a sense of tension and unease. The melody is also marked by frequent leaps and sudden changes in direction, which add to the emotional intensity of the piece. The piano accompaniment is sparse and understated, providing a simple but effective backdrop for the vocal line. Overall, "Klage an den Mond" is a powerful and moving example of Schubert's artistry as a composer of lieder. Its emotional depth and expressive power make it a favorite among performers and audiences alike.

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