Composer

:

Robert Schumann

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song

Compose Date

:

1840

Average_duration

:

2:51

Robert Schumann's 'Lied der Suleika, Op. 25/9' is a vocal work composed in 1840. It was premiered in the same year in Leipzig, Germany. The piece is part of Schumann's song cycle 'Myrthen', which consists of 26 songs and was written as a wedding gift for his wife Clara. 'Lied der Suleika' is a single movement piece that features a solo voice accompanied by piano. The text is taken from Johann Wolfgang von Goethe's 'West-östlicher Divan', a collection of poems inspired by Persian literature. The poem tells the story of Suleika, a young woman who is in love with a man who is far away. She sings of her longing for him and her hope that he will return to her. The piece begins with a gentle piano introduction that sets the mood for the song. The vocal line enters with a simple melody that is repeated throughout the piece. The piano accompaniment is delicate and supportive, providing a gentle backdrop for the voice. As the song progresses, the vocal line becomes more complex, with Schumann using chromaticism and unexpected harmonies to create a sense of tension and longing. The piano accompaniment also becomes more intricate, with arpeggios and runs that add to the emotional intensity of the piece. One of the most striking characteristics of 'Lied der Suleika' is the way that Schumann uses the voice to convey the emotions of the text. The vocal line is expressive and nuanced, with Schumann using dynamics, phrasing, and articulation to bring the words to life. The piece is also notable for its use of rubato, with the singer and pianist taking liberties with the tempo to create a sense of freedom and spontaneity. Overall, 'Lied der Suleika' is a beautiful and poignant work that showcases Schumann's skill as a composer of vocal music. Its emotional depth and expressive power make it a beloved piece in the repertoire of art songs.

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