Composer

:

Kurt Weill

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song

Compose Date

:

Jun 1943 - Sep 1943

Publication Date

:

1943

First Performance

:

Oct 7, 1943

Average_duration

:

4:04

"Speak Low" is a popular song composed by Kurt Weill, with lyrics by Ogden Nash. The song was written for the 1943 Broadway musical "One Touch of Venus," which starred Mary Martin. The musical was a success, running for over 500 performances and earning Weill a Tony Award for Best Original Score. "Speak Low" is a ballad that features a slow, romantic melody and a simple, yet poignant, lyric. The song is characterized by its lush harmonies and Weill's use of chromaticism, which gives the melody a sense of longing and melancholy. The song is typically performed in a slow, dreamy tempo, with the vocalist delivering the lyrics in a soft, intimate manner. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including Billie Holiday, Tony Bennett, and Barbra Streisand. It has also been featured in several films, including "The Big Sleep" and "The Talented Mr. Ripley." "Speak Low" is typically performed in two movements, with the first movement featuring the verse and the second movement featuring the chorus. The verse is characterized by its descending melody and its use of minor chords, which create a sense of sadness and longing. The chorus, on the other hand, features a more uplifting melody and a major chord progression, which gives the song a sense of hope and optimism. Overall, "Speak Low" is a beautiful and timeless song that has become a classic of the American songbook. Its simple yet powerful melody and poignant lyrics have made it a favorite of singers and audiences alike, and it continues to be performed and enjoyed to this day.

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