Composer

:

Robert Schumann

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song

Compose Date

:

1840

Average_duration

:

2:23

"Was will die einsame Träne?" (What does the lonely tear want?) is a Lied (art song) composed by Robert Schumann in 1840 as part of his song cycle "Myrthen," Op. 25. The song is set to a poem by Heinrich Heine, which tells the story of a lonely tear that falls from the eyes of a young woman who is mourning the loss of her lover. The song was premiered on June 25, 1840, in Leipzig, Germany, with the composer's wife, Clara Schumann, as the pianist. The song is in the key of A-flat major and has a slow tempo, giving it a mournful and melancholic character. The song is divided into three distinct sections or movements. The first movement begins with a simple piano introduction that sets the mood for the song. The singer then enters with the first verse, singing of the lonely tear that falls from the young woman's eyes. The melody is simple and repetitive, with a descending line that emphasizes the sadness of the text. The second movement is more complex, with a more elaborate piano accompaniment and a more varied vocal melody. The singer describes the young woman's longing for her lost lover, and the music becomes more passionate and intense. The final movement returns to the simplicity of the first, with a repeat of the opening piano introduction and a restatement of the first verse. The song ends with a quiet and gentle piano coda, suggesting the peaceful acceptance of the young woman's sorrow. Overall, "Was will die einsame Träne?" is a beautiful and poignant song that captures the essence of Schumann's romantic style. The simple yet expressive melody, combined with the evocative text, creates a powerful emotional impact that has made the song a favorite of singers and audiences alike.

More....