Composer

:

Paul Dessau

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Average_duration

:

2:13

'Bitten der Kinder' is a choral work composed by Paul Dessau in 1952. The piece was premiered on October 7, 1952, in East Berlin, Germany. The work is divided into three movements, each with its own unique characteristics. The first movement, 'Die Kinder bitten um Frieden' (The Children Beg for Peace), is a slow and mournful piece that begins with a solo voice singing a prayer for peace. The choir then joins in, singing in unison, creating a haunting and somber atmosphere. The movement builds to a climax, with the choir singing in harmony, expressing the children's desperate plea for peace. The second movement, 'Die Kinder bitten um Brot' (The Children Beg for Bread), is a faster-paced piece that begins with a lively and rhythmic melody. The choir sings in harmony, expressing the children's hunger and need for food. The movement is characterized by its use of syncopated rhythms and dynamic contrasts, creating a sense of urgency and desperation. The final movement, 'Die Kinder bitten um Freiheit' (The Children Beg for Freedom), is a powerful and emotional piece that begins with a solo voice singing a hymn for freedom. The choir then joins in, singing in harmony, expressing the children's desire for freedom and justice. The movement is characterized by its use of dissonant harmonies and dramatic shifts in dynamics, creating a sense of tension and struggle. Overall, 'Bitten der Kinder' is a powerful and moving work that expresses the struggles and desires of children living in a world torn apart by war and poverty. Dessau's use of choral harmony, dynamic contrasts, and rhythmic complexity creates a sense of urgency and desperation, making the piece a powerful statement on the human condition.

More....