Composer

:

Franz Schubert

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song

Compose Date

:

Mar 1817

Average_duration

:

2:10

"Philoktet, D. 540" is a composition by Franz Schubert, composed in 1817. It is a setting of a text by Johann Mayrhofer, based on the Greek myth of Philoctetes. The work was premiered in Vienna in 1821. The composition consists of three movements. The first movement is a recitative and aria for the character of Philoctetes, who is stranded on an island and suffering from a painful wound. The music is characterized by its mournful, melancholic tone, with Schubert using chromatic harmonies to convey the character's pain and isolation. The second movement is a duet between Philoctetes and the character of Neoptolemus, who has been sent to retrieve the bow of Hercules from the island. The music is more lively and energetic than the first movement, with Schubert using a variety of rhythmic and melodic devices to convey the characters' conflicting emotions. The final movement is a chorus for the characters of Philoctetes, Neoptolemus, and the chorus of sailors who have come to the island. The music is triumphant and celebratory, with Schubert using bold harmonies and soaring melodies to convey the characters' joy at the resolution of their conflict. Overall, "Philoktet, D. 540" is a powerful and emotionally charged work, showcasing Schubert's skill at setting text to music and his ability to convey complex emotions through his compositions.

More....