Composer

:

Dmitry Shostakovich

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song Collection

Compose Date

:

1928 - 1932

Average_duration

:

13:35

Movement_count

:

6

Movement ....

Dmitry Shostakovich's 'Songs (6) on verses by Japanese poets, Op. 21' is a song cycle composed in 1940. The premiere of the work took place on 28th December 1940 in Moscow, with the composer himself accompanying the singer, Zara Dolukhanova, on the piano. The song cycle consists of six movements, each based on a poem by a Japanese poet. The first movement, 'The Cherry Orchard', is a lively and playful song that captures the beauty of cherry blossoms in spring. The second movement, 'The Gamblers', is a more somber and introspective piece that reflects on the fleeting nature of life. The third movement, 'Lullaby', is a gentle and soothing song that speaks of a mother's love for her child. The fourth movement, 'The Sun Shines on Everyone', is a bright and optimistic piece that celebrates the beauty of nature and the joy of life. The fifth movement, 'The City of the Kite', is a haunting and melancholic song that speaks of the transience of human existence. The final movement, 'The Weeping Willow', is a mournful and introspective piece that reflects on the pain of loss and the inevitability of death. Shostakovich's 'Songs (6) on verses by Japanese poets, Op. 21' is characterized by its lyrical melodies, expressive harmonies, and evocative use of piano accompaniment. The composer's use of Japanese poetry as the basis for the song cycle reflects his interest in Eastern culture and his desire to explore new musical forms and styles. Overall, 'Songs (6) on verses by Japanese poets, Op. 21' is a beautiful and poignant work that showcases Shostakovich's skill as a composer and his ability to capture the essence of human emotion through music.

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