Composer

:

Robert Schumann

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song

Compose Date

:

1840

Average_duration

:

2:38

"Nur ein lächelnder Blick" (Just One Smiling Glance) is a song composed by Robert Schumann, Op. 27/5. It was composed in 1840, during Schumann's "Liederjahr" or "Year of Song," a period in which he composed over 130 songs. The song was premiered in Leipzig on December 1, 1840, with the composer's wife, Clara Schumann, as the soloist. The song is part of Schumann's song cycle "Myrthen," Op. 25, which consists of 26 songs and was composed as a wedding gift for Clara. "Nur ein lächelnder Blick" is the fifth song in the cycle and is set to a poem by Friedrich Rückert. The song is in A-flat major and has a moderate tempo. The song is characterized by its simple and delicate melody, which is accompanied by a gentle and flowing piano accompaniment. The vocal line is lyrical and expressive, with a range of dynamics and phrasing that convey the emotions of the text. The song's text speaks of the power of a single smile to bring joy and happiness to the heart, and Schumann's music captures this sentiment perfectly. The song is divided into three sections, with the first and third sections being identical in melody and text. The middle section features a contrasting melody and text, which speaks of the pain of separation and the longing for a loved one's return. The song ends with a return to the opening melody and text, bringing the listener full circle and emphasizing the power of a single smile to bring happiness and comfort. Overall, "Nur ein lächelnder Blick" is a beautiful and expressive song that showcases Schumann's skill as a composer of lieder. Its simple melody and delicate accompaniment perfectly capture the sentiment of the text, making it a beloved piece in the repertoire of art songs.

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