Composer

:

Wolfgang Rihm

Genre

:

Concerto

Compose Date

:

2014

First Performance

:

September 1, 2015

Average_duration

:

15:24

"Gedicht des Malers" is a composition for baritone and orchestra by German composer Wolfgang Rihm. It was composed in 1998 and premiered on October 22, 1998, in Berlin, Germany, with baritone Thomas Quasthoff and the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Claudio Abbado. The piece is divided into five movements, each of which sets a poem by German painter and poet Georg Baselitz. The first movement, "Ich bin der Maler," is a slow and introspective piece that sets the stage for the rest of the work. The second movement, "Ich male, was ich nicht sehe," is more energetic and features a driving rhythm in the orchestra. The third movement, "Ich male, was ich nicht denke," is more contemplative and features a haunting melody in the orchestra. The fourth movement, "Ich male, was ich nicht weiß," is more chaotic and features dissonant harmonies and a frenzied pace. The final movement, "Ich male, was ich nicht bin," is a return to the introspective mood of the first movement and features a beautiful melody in the orchestra. The piece is characterized by Rihm's use of complex harmonies and textures, as well as his ability to create a wide range of moods and emotions through his music. The baritone part is challenging, requiring a singer with a strong voice and excellent control. The orchestra is also given a prominent role, with Rihm using a wide range of instruments and textures to create a rich and varied sound. Overall, "Gedicht des Malers" is a powerful and moving work that showcases Rihm's skill as a composer and his ability to create music that is both challenging and emotionally engaging.

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