Composer

:

Hugo Wolf

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

Oct 4, 1878

Average_duration

:

2:35

"Es war ein alter König" is a song composed by Hugo Wolf in 1888. It is part of his collection of Mörike-Lieder, which consists of 53 songs based on poems by Eduard Mörike. The song was premiered in Stuttgart on November 22, 1888, with the composer himself at the piano. The song is in three movements, with a total duration of approximately six minutes. The first movement is marked "Sehr langsam und ausdrucksvoll" (very slow and expressive) and is in the key of E-flat major. The second movement is marked "Lebhaft" (lively) and is in the key of C minor. The third movement is marked "Sehr langsam" (very slow) and is in the key of E-flat major. The song tells the story of an old king who is dying and reflecting on his life. In the first movement, the king laments his lost youth and the passing of time. The second movement is a lively dance, representing the king's memories of happier times. The third movement is a somber reflection on death and the afterlife. Wolf's setting of Mörike's poem is characterized by its rich harmonies and expressive melodies. The first movement features a mournful melody in the vocal line, accompanied by a flowing piano part. The second movement is more upbeat, with a lively dance rhythm and playful piano accompaniment. The third movement is the most introspective, with a haunting melody and sparse piano accompaniment. Overall, "Es war ein alter König" is a poignant and introspective song that showcases Wolf's skill as a composer. Its themes of aging, memory, and mortality are universal and timeless, making it a beloved piece in the art song repertoire.

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