Composer

:

Hugo Wolf

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song

Compose Date

:

Feb 10, 1889

Average_duration

:

1:49

"Genialisch Treiben (Goethe Lieder)" is a song cycle composed by Hugo Wolf, a prominent Austrian composer of the late Romantic era. The cycle was composed in 1888 and premiered in Vienna in the same year. It consists of six songs, each based on a poem by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, one of the most important German literary figures of the 18th and 19th centuries. The first song, "Gleich und Gleich," is a lively and playful piece that sets the tone for the rest of the cycle. The second song, "Der Rattenfänger," is a darker and more dramatic piece that tells the story of the Pied Piper of Hamelin. The third song, "Der Sänger," is a more introspective piece that explores the nature of art and creativity. The fourth song, "Der Schatzgräber," is a humorous and satirical piece that pokes fun at the idea of treasure hunting. The fifth song, "Der Geistertanz," is a haunting and eerie piece that evokes the supernatural. The final song, "Der Zauberlehrling," is a lively and energetic piece that tells the story of a young apprentice who tries to use magic to do his chores. The songs in "Genialisch Treiben" are characterized by their rich harmonies, intricate melodies, and expressive use of text painting. Wolf was known for his ability to capture the emotional and psychological nuances of poetry in his music, and this cycle is no exception. The songs range from lighthearted and humorous to dark and brooding, and each one is a masterful example of Wolf's skill as a composer. Overall, "Genialisch Treiben (Goethe Lieder)" is a significant work in the canon of German art song, and it remains a popular and beloved cycle to this day. Its combination of beautiful music and powerful poetry continues to captivate audiences and inspire new generations of musicians and composers.

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