Composer

:

Franz Schubert

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song

Compose Date

:

1818

Average_duration

:

4:48

"Das Abendrot" is a song composed by Franz Schubert in 1818. It is part of a collection of songs known as "Schwanengesang" (Swan Song), which was published posthumously in 1829. The song is also known as "Der Abend" (The Evening) and is the sixth and final song in the collection. The song is set to a poem by Johann Gabriel Seidl, which describes the beauty of the evening sky as the sun sets. The poem is full of vivid imagery, with the sky described as a "sea of gold" and the clouds as "rosy waves". The poem also reflects on the transience of life, with the speaker contemplating the end of his own life as he watches the sun set. The song is composed in the key of E-flat major and is in 6/8 time. It is marked "Andante molto" and has a slow, contemplative feel. The piano accompaniment is simple and understated, with gentle arpeggios and occasional flourishes. The song is divided into three distinct sections, each with its own character and mood. The first section is marked by a rising melody that reflects the beauty of the sunset. The second section is more introspective, with the melody descending and the mood becoming more melancholy. The final section returns to the rising melody of the first section, but with a sense of resignation and acceptance. Overall, "Das Abendrot" is a beautiful and poignant song that reflects on the beauty of nature and the transience of life. Schubert's setting of Seidl's poem captures the mood and imagery of the text perfectly, creating a work of great emotional depth and beauty.

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