Composer

:

Peter Cornelius

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Average_duration

:

1:44

"Am Meer" is a Lied composed by Peter Cornelius in 1854. It was premiered in Vienna in the same year. The song is part of a collection of six Lieder titled "Sechs Lieder" (Six Songs) and is considered one of Cornelius' most famous works. The song is written for a solo voice and piano accompaniment. It is in the key of E-flat major and has a moderate tempo. The text of the song is a poem by Heinrich Heine, which describes the melancholic mood of a person standing by the sea, contemplating the vastness of the ocean and the transience of life. The song is divided into three distinct sections or movements. The first movement begins with a slow and mournful introduction played by the piano, which sets the mood for the rest of the song. The singer then enters with the first verse, singing in a soft and introspective tone. The melody is simple and repetitive, with a descending motif that creates a sense of sadness and longing. The second movement is more lively and rhythmic, with a faster tempo and a more complex piano accompaniment. The singer's voice becomes more expressive, conveying a sense of urgency and restlessness. The melody is more varied, with sudden changes in dynamics and tempo that reflect the turbulent emotions of the protagonist. The third and final movement returns to the slow and mournful mood of the first, with the singer's voice becoming more subdued and introspective. The piano accompaniment is sparse and delicate, creating a sense of emptiness and solitude. The melody is simple and repetitive, with a descending motif that echoes the opening of the song. Overall, "Am Meer" is a powerful and evocative Lied that captures the essence of Heinrich Heine's poem. Peter Cornelius' music perfectly complements the melancholic and introspective mood of the text, creating a haunting and unforgettable musical experience.

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