Composer

:

Oskar Fried

Genre

:

Orchestral

Style

:

Orchestral

Average_duration

:

18:11

Oskar Fried's "Fantasie über Motive aus Hänsel und Gretel (after Humperdinck)" is a symphonic work that was composed in 1910. The piece is based on themes from Engelbert Humperdinck's opera "Hänsel und Gretel," which premiered in 1893. Fried's "Fantasie" was first performed on November 20, 1910, in Berlin, with the composer conducting. The work is divided into three movements, each of which is based on a different theme from "Hänsel und Gretel." The first movement is based on the "Witch's Ride" theme, which is a fast and frenzied melody that represents the witch's flight on her broomstick. Fried's treatment of this theme is highly virtuosic, with the orchestra performing rapid runs and trills to create a sense of speed and excitement. The second movement is based on the "Evening Prayer" theme, which is a gentle and peaceful melody that represents the children's prayer before they go to sleep. Fried's treatment of this theme is more subdued than the first movement, with the orchestra performing soft and delicate passages to create a sense of calm and tranquility. The third movement is based on the "Gingerbread House" theme, which is a playful and whimsical melody that represents the children's discovery of the witch's gingerbread house. Fried's treatment of this theme is light and airy, with the orchestra performing staccato passages and pizzicato strings to create a sense of playfulness and humor. Overall, Fried's "Fantasie über Motive aus Hänsel und Gretel" is a highly virtuosic and imaginative work that showcases the composer's skill in orchestration and his ability to create vivid musical images. The piece remains a popular choice for orchestras and audiences alike, and it continues to be performed and recorded to this day.

More....