Composer

:

Johannes Brahms

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song Collection

Compose Date

:

1864 - 1884

Average_duration

:

12:14

Movement_count

:

2

Movement ....

Johannes Brahms composed his 'Songs (2), Op. 91' in 1884, and they were premiered in Vienna the same year. The two songs are titled "Gestillte Sehnsucht" (Stilled Longing) and "Geistliches Wiegenlied" (Spiritual Lullaby). The first song, "Gestillte Sehnsucht," is a setting of a poem by Friedrich Rückert. The poem speaks of a longing that has been stilled, and the music reflects this sense of calm and contentment. The song is in ABA form, with the outer sections featuring a gentle, flowing melody and the middle section introducing a more dramatic, contrasting theme. The piano accompaniment is delicate and supportive, with arpeggiated chords and gentle figurations. The second song, "Geistliches Wiegenlied," is a setting of a poem by the composer's friend, Emanuel Geibel. The poem speaks of Mary rocking the baby Jesus to sleep, and the music has a gentle, lullaby-like quality. The song is in ternary form, with the outer sections featuring a simple, rocking melody and the middle section introducing a more complex, contrapuntal texture. The piano accompaniment is again delicate and supportive, with gentle arpeggios and a rocking rhythm. Both songs are characterized by their simplicity and elegance, with Brahms using his mastery of harmony and melody to create a sense of intimacy and emotional depth. The songs are also notable for their use of text painting, with the music reflecting the meaning of the words in subtle and effective ways. Overall, 'Songs (2), Op. 91' are a beautiful example of Brahms' artistry and sensitivity as a composer.

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