Composer

:

Friedrich Silcher

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Average_duration

:

3:16

"Schifferlied" is a German folk song composed by Friedrich Silcher in the early 19th century. The song was first published in 1827 and quickly became popular among German sailors and boatmen. It was later arranged for choir and orchestra, and has since become a staple of German choral music. The song is written in a simple, strophic form, with each verse consisting of four lines. The melody is characterized by its lilting, waltz-like rhythm, which evokes the gentle swaying of a boat on the water. The lyrics tell the story of a sailor who longs to return home to his beloved, and who finds solace in the beauty of the natural world around him. The premiere of "Schifferlied" is not well-documented, but it is likely that the song was first performed by Silcher himself, who was a renowned composer and conductor in his time. Silcher was known for his innovative arrangements of folk songs, and "Schifferlied" is a prime example of his skill in this area. The song is divided into three movements, each of which explores a different aspect of the sailor's experience. The first movement is marked by a sense of longing and nostalgia, as the sailor reflects on his separation from his loved one. The second movement is more upbeat and celebratory, as the sailor revels in the beauty of the natural world around him. The final movement is more introspective, as the sailor contemplates the transience of life and the inevitability of death. Overall, "Schifferlied" is a beautiful and evocative piece of music that captures the spirit of the German folk tradition. Its simple melody and heartfelt lyrics have made it a beloved classic among German choral groups, and it continues to be performed and enjoyed to this day.

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