Composer

:

Franz Schubert

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Quartet

Compose Date

:

Mar 1817

Average_duration

:

7:18

Franz Schubert's 'Gesang der Geister über den Wassern II, D. 538' is a choral work that was composed in 1817. The piece was premiered in Vienna in 1821, and it consists of three movements. The first movement of the piece is marked 'Andante con moto' and is scored for four-part choir and string quartet. The movement begins with a somber and mournful melody in the strings, which is then taken up by the choir. The text of the movement is a poem by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, which speaks of the spirits of the water and their mournful song. The movement is characterized by its haunting melody and the use of chromatic harmonies. The second movement of the piece is marked 'Allegro moderato' and is scored for four-part choir and string quartet. The movement begins with a lively and energetic melody in the strings, which is then taken up by the choir. The text of the movement is also a poem by Goethe, which speaks of the power and majesty of nature. The movement is characterized by its rhythmic energy and the use of dynamic contrasts. The third movement of the piece is marked 'Andante sostenuto' and is scored for four-part choir and string quartet. The movement begins with a gentle and peaceful melody in the strings, which is then taken up by the choir. The text of the movement is a poem by Friedrich von Schiller, which speaks of the beauty and tranquility of death. The movement is characterized by its serene melody and the use of rich harmonies. Overall, 'Gesang der Geister über den Wassern II, D. 538' is a beautiful and moving choral work that showcases Schubert's skill as a composer. The piece is characterized by its use of rich harmonies, haunting melodies, and dynamic contrasts, and it remains a beloved work in the choral repertoire to this day.

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