Composer

:

Johannes Brahms

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song

Compose Date

:

1864 - 1884

Average_duration

:

6:18

Johannes Brahms composed "Gestillte Sehnsucht, Op. 91/1" in 1884, and it premiered in Vienna the same year. The piece is part of a set of two songs for alto, baritone, and piano, with lyrics by Friedrich Rückert. The title translates to "Stilled Longing" and the piece is known for its melancholic and introspective character. The song is divided into two distinct sections, with the first section featuring a slow and mournful melody in the piano, accompanied by the alto and baritone voices singing in unison. The lyrics describe a longing for peace and rest, with the speaker yearning for the "quiet of the grave." The second section of the piece features a more lively and hopeful melody, with the voices singing in harmony. The lyrics describe the speaker finding solace in the beauty of nature, with the "whispering of the leaves" and the "rippling of the brook" bringing comfort to their troubled soul. Brahms' use of harmony and counterpoint in "Gestillte Sehnsucht" is particularly noteworthy. The piece features rich and complex harmonies, with the voices and piano weaving in and out of each other in a delicate dance. The use of dissonance and resolution creates a sense of tension and release, adding to the emotional depth of the piece. Overall, "Gestillte Sehnsucht, Op. 91/1" is a hauntingly beautiful piece that showcases Brahms' mastery of melody, harmony, and counterpoint. Its introspective and melancholic character has made it a favorite among performers and audiences alike, and it remains a beloved piece in the classical repertoire.

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