Composer

:

Hugo Wolf

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song

Compose Date

:

Jan 16, 1889

Average_duration

:

1:43

"So lang man nüchtern ist" is a song cycle composed by Hugo Wolf, based on poems by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. The cycle was composed in 1888 and premiered in Vienna in 1890. It consists of six songs, each with its own distinct character and mood. The first song, "Gesang Weylas," is a melancholic and introspective piece that sets the tone for the rest of the cycle. The second song, "Hochbeglückt in deiner Liebe," is a lively and joyful piece that celebrates the joys of love. The third song, "Ein Ständchen Euch zu bringen kam ich her," is a romantic serenade that features a beautiful melody and lush harmonies. The fourth song, "So lang man nüchtern ist," is the title track of the cycle and is a contemplative piece that explores the idea of sobriety and self-control. The fifth song, "Kennst du das Land," is a hauntingly beautiful piece that describes a mythical land of beauty and wonder. The final song, "Mignon," is a poignant and emotional piece that tells the story of a young girl who longs for her homeland. Throughout the cycle, Wolf's music perfectly captures the mood and emotion of Goethe's poetry. His use of rich harmonies, expressive melodies, and subtle shifts in tempo and dynamics create a powerful and evocative musical landscape that perfectly complements the text. Overall, "So lang man nüchtern ist" is a masterful work of art that showcases the talents of both Wolf and Goethe. Its timeless themes of love, longing, and self-discovery continue to resonate with audiences today, making it a beloved and enduring masterpiece of the classical music canon.

More....