Composer

:

Johannes Brahms

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song

Compose Date

:

1886

Average_duration

:

3:54

"Immer leiser wird mein Schlummer" is a Lied composed by Johannes Brahms in 1886. It is the second of five songs in his Opus 105, which were all composed in the same year. The song is set to a poem by Hermann von Lingg, which describes the peacefulness of sleep and the gradual fading away of consciousness. The song premiered on November 22, 1886, in Vienna, with the baritone singer Anton Sistermanns and Brahms himself at the piano. It was well-received by the audience and critics alike, who praised its delicate and introspective character. The song is written in the key of E-flat major and is structured in a simple A-B-A form. The first and last sections are identical, while the middle section presents a contrasting melody and harmonic progression. The accompaniment is sparse and delicate, with arpeggiated chords and occasional melodic fragments that support the vocal line. The vocal melody is characterized by its gentle and flowing character, with long phrases and subtle dynamic changes. The text is set in a declamatory style, with the singer delivering the words in a natural and expressive manner. The poem's theme of peaceful sleep is reflected in the music's tranquil and serene character, which gradually fades away into silence at the end of the song. Overall, "Immer leiser wird mein Schlummer" is a beautiful and introspective Lied that showcases Brahms's mastery of melody and harmony. Its delicate and peaceful character makes it a favorite among singers and audiences alike, and it remains a beloved part of the Lieder repertoire to this day.

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