Composer

:

Nils-Eric Fougstedt

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Average_duration

:

2:09

'Höstsång' is a choral work composed by Nils-Eric Fougstedt in 1943. The piece was premiered in Helsinki, Finland on October 10, 1943, by the Academic Male Choir of Helsinki University. The composition is divided into three movements, each with its own unique characteristics. The first movement, marked "Andante," begins with a somber and melancholic melody sung by the choir. The lyrics, written by the Swedish poet Edith Södergran, describe the changing of the seasons and the arrival of autumn. The music is characterized by its use of dissonant harmonies and shifting tonal centers, which create a sense of unease and uncertainty. The second movement, marked "Allegro," is a lively and energetic dance. The choir sings a playful melody that is accompanied by a rhythmic ostinato in the piano. The lyrics, also written by Södergran, describe the joy and vitality of life, even in the face of death and decay. The music is characterized by its use of syncopated rhythms and shifting meters, which create a sense of excitement and movement. The third and final movement, marked "Andante," returns to the somber mood of the first movement. The choir sings a mournful melody that is accompanied by a simple piano accompaniment. The lyrics, once again written by Södergran, describe the inevitability of death and the transience of life. The music is characterized by its use of long, sustained chords and a slow, mournful tempo, which create a sense of sadness and resignation. Overall, 'Höstsång' is a powerful and evocative choral work that captures the changing of the seasons and the fragility of life. Fougstedt's use of dissonant harmonies, shifting tonal centers, and syncopated rhythms creates a sense of tension and movement, while the lyrics by Södergran add a layer of depth and meaning to the music. The piece remains a beloved and frequently performed work in the choral repertoire.

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