Composer

:

Carl Reinecke

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Suite

Average_duration

:

24:22

Von der Wiege bis zum Grabe, Op. 202 is a symphonic poem composed by Carl Reinecke in 1882. The piece was inspired by a poem of the same name by Friedrich Rückert, which translates to "From the Cradle to the Grave." The work was originally written for piano four-hands, but was later arranged for full orchestra by Ernst Rudorff and then by Gustav Adolf Kohler. The piece is divided into three movements, each representing a different stage of life. The first movement, "From the Cradle," is marked Adagio and begins with a gentle, lullaby-like melody played by the strings. The music gradually builds in intensity, with the addition of woodwinds and brass, before returning to the peaceful opening theme. The second movement, "Youth," is marked Allegro con fuoco and is much more energetic than the first. The music is characterized by fast, virtuosic passages in the strings and woodwinds, punctuated by brass fanfares. The middle section of the movement features a lyrical melody played by the oboe and clarinet, which is then taken up by the full orchestra. The final movement, "To the Grave," is marked Adagio and is the most somber of the three. The music is characterized by mournful melodies played by the strings, with occasional interjections from the woodwinds and brass. The movement builds to a powerful climax before gradually fading away, ending with a quiet, peaceful coda. Overall, Von der Wiege bis zum Grabe is a highly emotional and evocative work, with each movement capturing a different aspect of the human experience. The piece premiered in Leipzig on January 25, 1883, conducted by the composer himself.

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