Composer

:

Hanns Eisler

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Elegy

Average_duration

:

2:17

Hanns Eisler's "Elegies (2), No. 2, An die Überlebenden" is a composition for voice and piano that was composed in 1949. The piece was premiered in East Berlin on November 4, 1949, with the composer himself at the piano and the singer Ernst Busch performing the vocal part. The composition consists of two movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement is marked "Andante con moto" and is characterized by a mournful, elegiac quality. The vocal line is set against a sparse, haunting piano accompaniment, with the singer delivering the text in a somber, almost spoken style. The text of the first movement is a poem by Bertolt Brecht, which reflects on the devastation of war and the suffering of those who have survived it. The second movement is marked "Allegro moderato" and is more upbeat and optimistic in character. The vocal line is set against a lively, rhythmic piano accompaniment, with the singer delivering the text in a more declamatory style. The text of the second movement is also by Brecht, and it celebrates the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Overall, "Elegies (2), No. 2, An die Überlebenden" is a powerful and moving work that reflects Eisler's commitment to social and political issues. The piece is notable for its use of Brecht's poetry, which was a frequent source of inspiration for Eisler, as well as for its innovative use of voice and piano to create a deeply expressive and emotionally charged musical experience.

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