Composer

:

Paul Hindemith

Genre

:

Symphony

Style

:

Symphony

Compose Date

:

1934

Average_duration

:

27:03

Movement_count

:

3

Movement ....

Paul Hindemith's 'Mathis der Maler' is a symphony in three movements, composed between 1933 and 1934. The work was premiered in 1934 in Berlin, conducted by Wilhelm Furtwängler. The symphony is based on Hindemith's opera of the same name, which tells the story of the German Renaissance painter Matthias Grünewald. The first movement, titled 'Engelkonzert' (Angel Concert), is a serene and contemplative piece that features a solo trumpet and a choir of muted strings. The movement is characterized by its use of polyphony and counterpoint, as well as its rich harmonies and lush orchestration. The second movement, 'Grablegung' (Entombment), is a somber and mournful piece that depicts the burial of Christ. The movement is marked by its use of dissonance and chromaticism, as well as its dramatic shifts in dynamics and tempo. The movement features a solo viola, which represents the figure of Mathis the painter. The final movement, 'Versuchung des heiligen Antonius' (Temptation of St. Anthony), is a lively and energetic piece that depicts the temptation of St. Anthony by demons. The movement is characterized by its use of syncopation and irregular rhythms, as well as its playful and whimsical orchestration. The movement features a solo trumpet, which represents the figure of Mathis the painter. Overall, 'Mathis der Maler' is a powerful and evocative work that showcases Hindemith's mastery of orchestration and his ability to convey complex emotions through music. The symphony is notable for its use of polyphony, counterpoint, and chromaticism, as well as its incorporation of elements of German Renaissance music.

More....