Composer

:

Felix Mendelssohn

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song

Compose Date

:

Jul 26, 1839

Publication Date

:

1843

Average_duration

:

2:01

'Altdeutsches Lied, Op. 57/1' is a choral work composed by Felix Mendelssohn in 1841. The piece was premiered on March 11, 1842, in Leipzig, Germany, by the Leipzig Gewandhaus Orchestra and the Leipzig Singakademie. The piece is a setting of a German folk song, which Mendelssohn arranged for four-part choir and orchestra. The work is in three movements, with the first and third movements being in a fast tempo, while the second movement is slower and more lyrical. The first movement begins with a lively orchestral introduction, which is followed by the choir singing the first verse of the folk song. The orchestra then takes over, playing a lively dance-like melody, which is then repeated by the choir. The movement ends with a rousing coda, with the choir and orchestra joining together in a triumphant finale. The second movement is a slower, more contemplative piece, with the choir singing a beautiful melody accompanied by the orchestra. The movement is characterized by its lush harmonies and expressive phrasing, which give the piece a sense of emotional depth and intensity. The third movement is a lively and energetic piece, with the choir and orchestra trading off melodies and rhythms. The movement is characterized by its fast tempo and intricate rhythms, which give the piece a sense of excitement and vitality. Overall, 'Altdeutsches Lied, Op. 57/1' is a beautiful and expressive choral work that showcases Mendelssohn's skill as a composer. The piece is characterized by its lush harmonies, expressive phrasing, and intricate rhythms, which give the piece a sense of emotional depth and intensity.

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