Composer

:

Richard Strauss

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song

Compose Date

:

1886 - 1888

Average_duration

:

3:28

"Epheu, Op. 22/3" is a composition by Richard Strauss, a German composer and conductor. It was composed in 1897 and premiered on November 21, 1897, in Berlin, Germany. The piece is part of a set of three songs, collectively known as "Drei Lieder der Ophelia" (Three Songs of Ophelia), which were inspired by William Shakespeare's play "Hamlet." "Epheu" is the second song in the set and is written for a solo soprano voice and piano accompaniment. The text of the song is taken from a scene in "Hamlet" where Ophelia is handing out flowers and herbs, each with a symbolic meaning. "Epheu" refers to ivy, which symbolizes fidelity and friendship. The song is in a slow and mournful tempo, with a melancholic melody that reflects the sadness and despair of Ophelia's character. The piano accompaniment is sparse and delicate, with gentle arpeggios and occasional dissonances that add to the emotional intensity of the piece. The vocal line is characterized by long, sustained notes and expressive phrasing, with occasional leaps and ornamentations that add to the dramatic effect. The text is sung in a clear and expressive manner, with a focus on the emotional content of the words. Overall, "Epheu" is a haunting and poignant composition that captures the essence of Ophelia's character and the themes of love, loss, and despair that are central to Shakespeare's play. It is a testament to Strauss's skill as a composer and his ability to convey complex emotions through music.

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