Composer

:

Émile Mathieu

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Average_duration

:

4:31

"Le Roi des Aulnes" is a symphonic poem composed by Émile Mathieu in 1908. The piece was inspired by the poem of the same name by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. It premiered on March 22, 1908, at the Salle Pleyel in Paris, conducted by the composer himself. The piece is divided into three movements, each representing a different aspect of the poem. The first movement, "L'Appel," begins with a haunting melody played by the strings, representing the call of the Erlking, the king of the elves. The music builds in intensity as the Erlking's call becomes more insistent, and the woodwinds and brass join in to create a sense of urgency. The second movement, "La Course," is a fast-paced and frenzied depiction of the ride through the forest. The music is full of energy and excitement, with the strings and brass racing through the music as if they are being chased by the Erlking. The final movement, "La Mort," is a somber and mournful reflection on the poem's tragic ending. The music is slow and mournful, with the strings playing a mournful melody that is joined by the woodwinds and brass. The music builds to a climax before fading away into silence, representing the death of the child. Overall, "Le Roi des Aulnes" is a powerful and evocative piece of music that captures the essence of Goethe's poem. Mathieu's use of orchestration and melody creates a vivid and emotional portrayal of the story, making it a timeless classic of the symphonic repertoire.

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