Composer

:

Franz Schubert

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song

Compose Date

:

1823

Average_duration

:

3:34

Franz Schubert's "Auf dem Wasser zu singen, D. 774, Op. 72" is a Lied, or art song, composed in 1823. It was premiered in Vienna in the same year, with Schubert himself accompanying the singer. The song is set to a poem by Friedrich Leopold zu Stolberg-Stolberg, which describes the peaceful and serene feeling of sailing on the water. The song is composed in the key of A-flat major and consists of three stanzas, each with its own melody. The first stanza is marked "Andante molto," and the second and third stanzas are marked "Allegro vivace." The piano accompaniment is light and flowing, imitating the motion of the water. The vocal line is lyrical and expressive, with long phrases and a wide range of dynamics. The first stanza begins with the line "Mitten im Schimmer der spiegelnden Wellen," which translates to "In the midst of the shimmering, reflecting waves." The melody is gentle and peaceful, reflecting the calmness of the water. The second stanza begins with the line "Wie sich die Welle an Welle reiht," which translates to "How wave follows wave." The melody is more lively and energetic, reflecting the movement of the water. The third stanza begins with the line "Alles, alles geht vorbei," which translates to "Everything, everything passes by." The melody is more introspective and melancholic, reflecting the transience of life. Overall, "Auf dem Wasser zu singen" is a beautiful and evocative song that captures the essence of sailing on the water. Its flowing piano accompaniment and expressive vocal line make it a favorite among singers and audiences alike.

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