Composer

:

Ernst Bacon

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1931

Average_duration

:

1:21

Ernst Bacon's "I'm Nobody" is a song cycle composed in 1942, with lyrics taken from three poems by Emily Dickinson. The cycle premiered in New York City in 1943, with the composer himself accompanying the singer. The cycle consists of three movements, each with its own distinct character and mood. The first movement, "I'm Nobody! Who are you?" is a playful and whimsical piece, with a bouncy piano accompaniment that mirrors the lightheartedness of the text. The singer's voice dances around the melody, conveying the sense of joy and freedom that comes with being an outsider. The second movement, "I'm Nobody! Who are you? (Part 2)" is a more introspective piece, with a slower tempo and a more contemplative mood. The piano accompaniment is more subdued, allowing the singer's voice to take center stage. The lyrics explore the idea of anonymity and the freedom it can bring, but also the loneliness and isolation that can come with being an outsider. The final movement, "I'm Nobody! Who are you? (Part 3)" is a return to the playful and whimsical mood of the first movement. The piano accompaniment is once again bouncy and lighthearted, and the singer's voice dances around the melody with a sense of joy and freedom. The lyrics explore the idea of being an outsider and the sense of liberation that comes with not conforming to societal norms. Overall, "I'm Nobody" is a charming and whimsical song cycle that captures the spirit of Emily Dickinson's poetry. The music is playful and lighthearted, but also introspective and contemplative, reflecting the complex emotions and ideas explored in the lyrics. The cycle remains a popular choice for singers and pianists alike, and is a testament to Ernst Bacon's skill as a composer.

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