Composer

:

Johannes Brahms

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Part Song

Compose Date

:

1868

Average_duration

:

3:04

'Rede, Mädchen, Op. 52/1' is a German art song composed by Johannes Brahms in 1869. The song is part of a collection of six songs, collectively known as 'Liebeslieder Walzer', which Brahms composed for vocal quartet and piano four-hands. The premiere of the song took place on January 6, 1870, in Vienna, Austria. 'Rede, Mädchen' is a strophic song, meaning that the same music is repeated for each stanza of the poem. The song is in 3/4 time and is written in the key of A-flat major. The vocal quartet sings the melody, while the piano four-hands provide accompaniment. The song has a moderate tempo and a gentle, lilting quality that reflects the tender sentiment of the lyrics. The poem for 'Rede, Mädchen' was written by Georg Friedrich Daumer, a German poet and philosopher. The poem tells the story of a young woman who is being courted by a man. The woman is hesitant to speak to the man, fearing that her words will reveal her true feelings. The man urges her to speak, assuring her that he will not be offended by her honesty. Brahms' setting of the poem is characterized by its simplicity and elegance. The vocal lines are lyrical and expressive, with a gentle, flowing quality that reflects the emotional content of the lyrics. The piano accompaniment is delicate and understated, providing a subtle harmonic framework for the vocal quartet. Overall, 'Rede, Mädchen' is a beautiful example of Brahms' skill as a composer of art songs. The song's gentle melody and tender sentiment make it a favorite among vocalists and audiences alike.

More....