Composer

:

Hector Berlioz

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Ballade

Compose Date

:

Jul 1848

Average_duration

:

6:42

La Mort d'Ophélie, H. 92b, Op. 18/2 is a song composed by Hector Berlioz in 1842. It is part of a larger work called Tristia, which is a collection of three songs based on texts by Thomas Moore. The premiere of La Mort d'Ophélie took place on December 6, 1842, in Paris. The song is divided into three movements. The first movement is marked "Lent et expressif" (slow and expressive) and is in the key of G minor. It begins with a mournful melody played by the piano, which is then taken up by the voice. The text describes Ophelia's death by drowning, and the music reflects the sadness and tragedy of the event. The second movement is marked "Plus lent" (slower) and is in the key of E-flat major. It begins with a gentle, flowing melody played by the piano, which is then joined by the voice. The text describes Ophelia's funeral and the mourning of those who loved her. The music is somber and reflective, with a sense of resignation and acceptance. The third movement is marked "Très lent" (very slow) and is in the key of G minor. It begins with a simple, mournful melody played by the piano, which is then joined by the voice. The text describes Ophelia's ghost haunting the river where she died. The music is haunting and ethereal, with a sense of otherworldliness and mystery. Overall, La Mort d'Ophélie is a beautiful and poignant song that showcases Berlioz's skill as a composer. The music perfectly captures the sadness and tragedy of Ophelia's death, as well as the mourning and acceptance that follow. It is a testament to Berlioz's ability to convey complex emotions through music.

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