Composer

:

Max Reger

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

Sep 1914

Average_duration

:

2:16

"Unser liebe Frauen Traum, Op. 138/4" is a choral work composed by Max Reger in 1915. The piece was premiered on December 12, 1915, in Leipzig, Germany, by the Thomanerchor under the direction of Günther Ramin. The work is divided into three movements, each of which is based on a different text. The first movement, "Unser liebe Frauen Traum," is a setting of a German poem by Friedrich Spee. The second movement, "Es ist ein Ros entsprungen," is a traditional German Christmas carol. The third movement, "Maria durch ein Dornwald ging," is a traditional German folk song. Reger's setting of "Unser liebe Frauen Traum" is characterized by its rich harmonies and complex counterpoint. The piece begins with a somber, almost mournful, melody in the lower voices, which is then taken up by the upper voices. The harmonies are often dissonant, creating a sense of tension and unease. The second movement, "Es ist ein Ros entsprungen," is a more straightforward setting of the traditional carol. Reger's harmonies are still rich and complex, but the overall mood is more joyful and celebratory. The final movement, "Maria durch ein Dornwald ging," is a hauntingly beautiful setting of the traditional folk song. The melody is simple and plaintive, but Reger's harmonies add depth and complexity to the piece. Overall, "Unser liebe Frauen Traum, Op. 138/4" is a stunning example of Reger's mastery of choral composition. The piece showcases his ability to create complex harmonies and counterpoint while still maintaining a sense of emotional depth and beauty.

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