Composer

:

Erich Zeisl

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1930 - 1931

Average_duration

:

1:58

Erich Zeisl's "Auf dem Grabstein eines Kindes in einem Kirchgang im Odenwald" is a poignant and emotional work for mixed choir and piano. The piece was composed in 1943, during the height of World War II, and premiered in Vienna in 1944. The work is divided into three movements, each with its own unique characteristics. The first movement, "Andante con moto," begins with a gentle piano introduction that sets the mournful tone of the piece. The choir enters with a simple melody that is repeated throughout the movement. The text, written by the composer himself, speaks of the sadness and grief felt by a mother who has lost her child. The music is somber and reflective, with the choir singing in unison and the piano providing a delicate accompaniment. The second movement, "Allegro moderato," is more upbeat and energetic than the first. The choir sings a lively melody that is reminiscent of a folk song. The text, also written by Zeisl, speaks of the child's innocence and the hope that she is now in a better place. The piano provides a driving rhythm that propels the music forward, and the choir sings with a sense of joy and optimism. The final movement, "Andante sostenuto," returns to the mournful tone of the first. The choir sings a simple melody that is accompanied by a haunting piano line. The text speaks of the mother's longing to be reunited with her child in the afterlife. The music is slow and contemplative, with the choir singing in harmony and the piano providing a sense of depth and richness. Overall, "Auf dem Grabstein eines Kindes in einem Kirchgang im Odenwald" is a deeply moving work that captures the pain and sorrow of loss, as well as the hope and optimism that can come from faith. Zeisl's use of simple melodies and harmonies, combined with his poignant text, creates a work that is both accessible and emotionally powerful.

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