Composer

:

Felix Mendelssohn

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Publication Date

:

1882

'Warum ich weine' is a song composed by Felix Mendelssohn in 1830. It was premiered in Berlin on December 1, 1830, with the composer himself accompanying the singer, Wilhelmine Schröder-Devrient. The song is part of a collection of six songs, Op. 47, which Mendelssohn composed between 1830 and 1831. 'Warum ich weine' is a Lied, a German art song, and is written for a solo voice and piano accompaniment. The song is in A minor and has a slow tempo. It consists of two stanzas, each with four lines, and a refrain that is repeated after each stanza. The text is by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe and is a lament of unrequited love. The first stanza begins with the singer asking why she weeps, and she answers that it is because her love is unreturned. The second stanza describes the singer's longing for her love and her despair at not being able to be with him. The refrain, "Ach, um deine feuchten Schwingen," which translates to "Ah, for your moist wings," refers to the tears that the singer sheds for her unrequited love. The song is characterized by its melancholic and introspective mood, which is typical of Mendelssohn's Lieder. The piano accompaniment is sparse and supports the singer's voice, which is the main focus of the piece. The melody is simple and expressive, with a descending motif that emphasizes the sadness of the text. Overall, 'Warum ich weine' is a beautiful and poignant Lied that showcases Mendelssohn's skill as a composer of vocal music. Its emotional depth and musical simplicity make it a timeless piece that continues to be performed and appreciated today.

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