Composer

:

Max Reger

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Publication Date

:

1904

Average_duration

:

2:01

Max Reger's 'Wie kommt's, daß du so traurig bist?' is the sixth of eight folk songs for chorus, composed in 1899. The piece premiered in Munich on March 17, 1900, and was published by C.F. Peters in Leipzig in the same year. The piece is written for four-part mixed choir and is based on a traditional German folk song. The text tells the story of a young woman who is sad and asks her lover why he is not with her. The music is characterized by its simple, folk-like melody and harmonies, which are typical of Reger's style. The piece is divided into three sections, each with its own distinct character. The first section is slow and mournful, with the choir singing in unison. The second section is faster and more rhythmic, with the choir singing in harmony. The final section returns to the slower tempo of the first section, with the choir singing in unison once again. Reger's use of harmony is particularly noteworthy in this piece. He employs chromaticism and dissonance to create a sense of tension and sadness, which is in keeping with the text of the song. The piece also features a number of dynamic contrasts, with the choir alternating between loud and soft passages. Overall, 'Wie kommt's, daß du so traurig bist?' is a beautiful and poignant piece of choral music that showcases Reger's skill as a composer. Its simple melody and harmonies make it accessible to choirs of all levels, while its emotional depth and complexity make it a rewarding piece to perform.

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