Composer

:

Viktor Ullmann

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Average_duration

:

3:17

"Clere Venus, Op. 34/1" is a composition by Viktor Ullmann, a Czech-Austrian composer and pianist who was born in 1898 and died in 1944. The piece was composed in 1943, while Ullmann was imprisoned in the Theresienstadt concentration camp during World War II. It is part of a larger collection of songs called "Liebeslieder" (Love Songs), which Ullmann composed during his time in the camp. "Clere Venus, Op. 34/1" premiered in Theresienstadt in 1943, likely performed by Ullmann himself or other prisoners in the camp. The piece is written for voice and piano, and is one of Ullmann's most well-known compositions. The piece is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement is marked "Andante con moto" and is in a minor key. It begins with a piano introduction that sets the mood for the piece, with a haunting melody that is later echoed by the voice. The vocal line is lyrical and expressive, with a sense of longing and sadness. The piano accompaniment is sparse and delicate, providing a gentle support for the voice. The second movement is marked "Allegro moderato" and is in a major key. It is more upbeat and lively than the first movement, with a faster tempo and a more rhythmic piano accompaniment. The vocal line is more playful and flirtatious, with a sense of joy and excitement. The movement ends with a brief piano coda that brings the piece to a close. The third movement is marked "Andante con moto" and is in a minor key. It returns to the mood of the first movement, with a sense of sadness and longing. The vocal line is more introspective and contemplative, with a sense of resignation and acceptance. The piano accompaniment is once again sparse and delicate, providing a gentle support for the voice. Overall, "Clere Venus, Op. 34/1" is a beautiful and haunting composition that showcases Ullmann's skill as a composer and his ability to create powerful music even in the most difficult of circumstances. It is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of music to transcend even the darkest of times.

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