Composer

:

Franz Schubert

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song

Compose Date

:

1827

Average_duration

:

3:36

Franz Schubert's Rast, D. 911/10, Op. 89/10 is a Lied, or art song, composed in 1828. It is the tenth and final song in Schubert's song cycle, Die Winterreise, which tells the story of a young man's journey through a winter landscape after being rejected by his lover. The premiere of Die Winterreise took place on December 13, 1828, just a few months before Schubert's death. The song cycle was not well-received at the time, but has since become one of Schubert's most beloved works. Rast, which translates to "rest" in English, is a slow and contemplative song that serves as a moment of respite in the midst of the young man's journey. The song begins with a gentle, flowing piano accompaniment that sets a peaceful and introspective mood. The vocal line is simple and lyrical, with long, sustained notes that convey a sense of calm and stillness. The lyrics of Rast describe the young man's desire to rest and forget his troubles, even if only for a moment. He longs to escape the harsh winter landscape and find a place of warmth and comfort. The final lines of the song, "Here I rest, and wait for the bright sunshine / Which will also come to me, friend," suggest a glimmer of hope and optimism in the midst of the young man's despair. Overall, Rast is a beautiful and poignant example of Schubert's mastery of the Lied form. Its gentle melody and introspective lyrics capture the essence of the young man's journey and provide a moment of quiet reflection in the midst of his struggles.

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