Composer

:

Hugo Distler

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Dance

Average_duration

:

34:02

Hugo Distler's 'Totentanz, Op.12/2' is a choral work that was composed in 1934. It premiered on November 4, 1934, in Berlin, Germany. The piece is divided into six movements, each of which depicts a different aspect of death. The first movement, titled "Der Tod als Freund" (Death as a Friend), is a gentle and peaceful introduction to the piece. The choir sings of death as a comforting presence, a friend who will guide them through the afterlife. The second movement, "Der Tod als Lehrer" (Death as a Teacher), is more ominous. The choir sings of death as a stern teacher who will punish those who have not lived a virtuous life. The third movement, "Der Tod als Ernter" (Death as a Harvester), is a lively and energetic dance. The choir sings of death as a harvester who gathers the souls of the dead like a farmer gathers his crops. The fourth movement, "Der Tod als Richter" (Death as a Judge), is a solemn and serious piece. The choir sings of death as a judge who will weigh the deeds of the living and determine their fate in the afterlife. The fifth movement, "Der Tod als Engel" (Death as an Angel), is a beautiful and ethereal piece. The choir sings of death as an angel who will guide them to heaven. The final movement, "Der Tod als Freund" (Death as a Friend), is a reprise of the first movement. The choir sings of death as a friend who will comfort them in their final moments. Overall, 'Totentanz, Op.12/2' is a haunting and powerful work that explores the many facets of death. Distler's use of choral harmonies and intricate counterpoint creates a sense of both beauty and foreboding, making this piece a true masterpiece of choral music.

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