Composer

:

Franz Schreker

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

Apr 1897

Average_duration

:

2:17

'Conquered' is a symphonic poem composed by Franz Schreker in 1921. It premiered on January 22, 1922, in Berlin, conducted by the composer himself. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct characteristics. The first movement, titled "The Night," begins with a dark and brooding introduction, featuring low strings and brass. The music gradually builds in intensity, with the addition of woodwinds and percussion, creating a sense of foreboding. The main theme is introduced by the violins, a haunting melody that is repeated and developed throughout the movement. The music reaches a climax before subsiding into a quiet, eerie coda. The second movement, "The Dawn," is a stark contrast to the first. It begins with a bright and optimistic theme played by the woodwinds, accompanied by a light, dancing rhythm in the strings. The music gradually builds in intensity, with the addition of brass and percussion, before reaching a triumphant climax. The movement ends with a joyful coda, featuring a reprise of the main theme. The final movement, "The Day," is the longest and most complex of the three. It begins with a slow, mournful theme played by the cellos and basses, accompanied by a mournful melody in the woodwinds. The music gradually builds in intensity, with the addition of brass and percussion, before reaching a frenzied climax. The main theme is then introduced by the violins, a fast and furious melody that is repeated and developed throughout the movement. The music reaches a final, triumphant climax before subsiding into a quiet, reflective coda. Overall, 'Conquered' is a powerful and evocative work, showcasing Schreker's mastery of orchestration and his ability to create vivid musical landscapes. The piece is characterized by its use of contrasting themes and moods, as well as its dramatic shifts in dynamics and tempo. It is a testament to Schreker's skill as a composer and his ability to capture the essence of the human experience through music.

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