Composer

:

Hugo Wolf

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

Jun 1890

Average_duration

:

3:37

Hugo Wolf's 'Wie glänzt der helle Mond (Alte Weisen)' is a song cycle composed in 1888. The premiere of the cycle took place in Vienna in the same year. The cycle consists of six movements, each of which is based on a traditional German folk song. The songs are arranged for voice and piano. The first movement, 'Wie glänzt der helle Mond', is a lullaby. The melody is simple and soothing, and the piano accompaniment is gentle and flowing. The second movement, 'Ach, wie ist's möglich dann', is a love song. The melody is more complex than the first movement, and the piano accompaniment is more varied. The third movement, 'Es blies ein Jäger wohl in sein Horn', is a hunting song. The melody is lively and energetic, and the piano accompaniment is rhythmic and driving. The fourth movement, 'Ich hab' in Penna einen Liebsten wohnen', is a love song. The melody is sweet and tender, and the piano accompaniment is delicate and understated. The fifth movement, 'Ein Ständchen Euch zu bringen kam ich hierher', is a serenade. The melody is romantic and wistful, and the piano accompaniment is dreamy and atmospheric. The final movement, 'Wohl kenn' ich Euren Stand', is a drinking song. The melody is lively and upbeat, and the piano accompaniment is jaunty and playful. The characteristics of the cycle are typical of Wolf's style. The melodies are simple and folk-like, but the harmonies are complex and sophisticated. The piano accompaniments are varied and expressive, and they often provide a counterpoint to the vocal line. The songs are full of emotion and drama, and they often explore themes of love, nature, and the human condition. Overall, 'Wie glänzt der helle Mond (Alte Weisen)' is a beautiful and evocative song cycle that showcases Wolf's talent as a composer. The cycle is a testament to the enduring power of traditional folk music, and it remains a beloved work in the classical repertoire.

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