Composer

:

Franz Schubert

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song

Average_duration

:

4:39

Franz Schubert's 'Suleika II, D. 717, Op. 31' is a Lied, or art song, composed in 1821. It is the second of two songs Schubert wrote based on the character of Suleika from Johann Wolfgang von Goethe's novel 'West-östlicher Divan'. The song was premiered in Vienna in 1822. The song is in the key of A minor and is written for a solo voice and piano accompaniment. It consists of three stanzas, each with its own melody and character. The first stanza is slow and contemplative, with a simple piano accompaniment that emphasizes the vocal melody. The second stanza is more lively and rhythmic, with a faster tempo and more complex piano accompaniment. The third stanza returns to the slower tempo of the first, but with a more elaborate vocal melody and a more ornate piano accompaniment. The lyrics of the song are in the form of a love letter from Suleika to her beloved, expressing her longing for him and her desire to be reunited with him. The text is full of poetic imagery and metaphors, reflecting the Romantic sensibility of the time. One of the most striking characteristics of the song is its use of chromaticism, or the use of notes outside of the key signature. This creates a sense of tension and ambiguity that reflects the emotional complexity of the text. The song also features Schubert's characteristic use of modulations, or changes in key, to create a sense of movement and development. Overall, 'Suleika II' is a beautiful and expressive example of Schubert's art song style, showcasing his mastery of melody, harmony, and poetic expression.

More....