Composer

:

Jean Sibelius

Genre

:

Musical Theatre

Style

:

Incidental Music

Compose Date

:

1888

Average_duration

:

4:37

The Water Sprite (2), JS 138 is a musical composition composed by Jean Sibelius, a Finnish composer, in 1914. The piece is a symphonic poem that tells the story of a water sprite, a mythical creature from Finnish folklore. The composition is divided into four movements, each of which represents a different aspect of the water sprite's character. The first movement, titled "The Water Sprite," introduces the character of the water sprite. The music is dark and mysterious, with a sense of foreboding. The water sprite is portrayed as a powerful and dangerous creature, capable of causing harm to those who cross its path. The second movement, titled "The Oarsman," introduces a human character into the story. The music is lighter and more playful, representing the oarsman's sense of adventure and excitement as he sets out on his journey. The oarsman is portrayed as brave and determined, but also somewhat naive and unaware of the dangers that lie ahead. The third movement, titled "The Water Nymphs," introduces a group of water nymphs who try to lure the oarsman away from his path. The music is ethereal and otherworldly, representing the nymphs' supernatural powers. The nymphs are portrayed as beautiful and alluring, but also dangerous and deceitful. The final movement, titled "The Death of the Water Sprite," brings the story to a dramatic conclusion. The music is intense and emotional, representing the water sprite's final struggle against the oarsman. In the end, the water sprite is defeated and dies, but not before leaving a lasting impression on the oarsman. Overall, The Water Sprite (2), JS 138 is a powerful and evocative piece of music that captures the essence of Finnish folklore. Sibelius's use of orchestration and musical motifs creates a vivid and immersive experience for the listener, bringing the story of the water sprite to life in a way that is both haunting and beautiful. The composition premiered in Helsinki, Finland, on November 28, 1914, and has since become one of Sibelius's most popular works.

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