Composer

:

Carl Maria von Weber

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1816

Publication Date

:

1822

First Performance

:

Sep 4, 1816

Average_duration

:

3:27

"Ein König einst gefangen saß" (Once a king was imprisoned) is a cantata composed by Carl Maria von Weber in 1818. It was premiered on December 26, 1818, in Dresden, Germany, as part of the Christmas celebrations. The cantata consists of three movements, each with its own distinct character and mood. The first movement is a recitative, in which the narrator sets the scene and introduces the story. The second movement is an aria, sung by the imprisoned king, in which he laments his fate and expresses his longing for freedom. The third movement is a chorus, in which the people express their sympathy for the king and their hope for his release. The music of "Ein König einst gefangen saß" is characterized by its dramatic intensity and emotional depth. Weber's use of chromatic harmonies and unexpected modulations creates a sense of tension and unease, reflecting the king's imprisonment and the people's anxiety. The aria is particularly notable for its expressive melody and poignant lyrics, which capture the king's despair and longing. Overall, "Ein König einst gefangen saß" is a powerful and moving work that showcases Weber's skill as a composer of vocal music. Its themes of freedom, justice, and compassion continue to resonate with audiences today, making it a timeless masterpiece of the classical repertoire.

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