Composer

:

Wang Jie

Genre

:

Chamber

Average_duration

:

5:49

'Songs for Mahler in the Absence of Words' is a contemporary classical composition by Chinese-American composer Wang Jie. The piece was composed in 2011 and premiered on May 7, 2011, at the DiMenna Center for Classical Music in New York City. The composition consists of five movements, each inspired by a different work of Gustav Mahler. The first movement, titled "Der Einsame im Herbst," is based on Mahler's song cycle "Das Lied von der Erde." The second movement, "Ich bin der Welt abhanden gekommen," is based on Mahler's song of the same name. The third movement, "Urlicht," is based on Mahler's "Symphony No. 2." The fourth movement, "Ich bin der Welt abhanden gekommen (reprise)," is a reprise of the second movement. The final movement, "Abschied," is based on the final movement of Mahler's "Das Lied von der Erde." The composition is characterized by its use of vocal and instrumental textures to evoke the emotional depth and complexity of Mahler's music. Wang Jie's use of dissonance and unconventional harmonies creates a sense of tension and unease, while her use of lyrical melodies and lush harmonies creates a sense of beauty and transcendence. Overall, 'Songs for Mahler in the Absence of Words' is a powerful and moving tribute to one of the greatest composers of the 20th century. Through her innovative use of musical language, Wang Jie has created a work that both honors Mahler's legacy and stands on its own as a masterpiece of contemporary classical music.

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