Composer

:

Dmitry Shostakovich

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song Collection

Compose Date

:

1974

Average_duration

:

12:16

Movement_count

:

4

Movement ....

"Verses (4) of Captain Lebyadkin, Op. 146" is a song cycle composed by Dmitry Shostakovich in 1974. The premiere of the work took place on December 18, 1974, in Moscow, with the baritone singer Yevgeny Nesterenko and the pianist Mstislav Rostropovich. The song cycle consists of four movements, each based on a poem by Fyodor Dostoevsky's novel "The Devils." The poems are sung in Russian and explore the themes of madness, despair, and the human condition. The first movement, "The Madman," is a haunting and dissonant piece that captures the madness of the character Captain Lebyadkin. The music is characterized by angular melodies, abrupt shifts in dynamics, and a sense of unease. The second movement, "The Dream," is a more lyrical and introspective piece that explores the character's inner turmoil. The music is marked by a sense of longing and melancholy, with a haunting melody that is repeated throughout the movement. The third movement, "The Sermon," is a powerful and dramatic piece that captures the intensity of the character's religious fervor. The music is characterized by driving rhythms, soaring melodies, and a sense of urgency. The final movement, "The Epilogue," is a somber and reflective piece that brings the cycle to a close. The music is marked by a sense of resignation and acceptance, with a haunting melody that is repeated throughout the movement. Overall, "Verses (4) of Captain Lebyadkin, Op. 146" is a powerful and evocative work that showcases Shostakovich's mastery of musical expression. The music captures the complex emotions and themes of Dostoevsky's novel, creating a haunting and unforgettable experience for the listener.

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