Composer

:

Georg Anton Benda

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Average_duration

:

2:21

"Heraklit, gleich stumpfen Greisen" is a cantata composed by Georg Anton Benda in 1774. The piece was premiered in Leipzig, Germany, and consists of three movements. The first movement, "Heraklit," is a recitative that sets the tone for the piece. The text, written by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, describes the philosopher Heraklit as a wise man who sees the world as constantly changing and in flux. Benda's music reflects this idea with constantly shifting harmonies and a sense of restlessness. The second movement, "Gleich stumpfen Greisen," is an aria that contrasts Heraklit's wisdom with the ignorance of old men who cling to their outdated beliefs. The text, also by Goethe, describes these men as "dull" and "stupid." Benda's music reflects this with a slow, plodding melody that seems to drag on. The final movement, "So geht's dahin," is a recitative and aria that brings the piece to a close. The text, again by Goethe, describes the inevitability of death and the transience of life. Benda's music reflects this with a mournful melody and a sense of resignation. Overall, "Heraklit, gleich stumpfen Greisen" is a powerful piece that explores themes of wisdom, ignorance, and mortality. Benda's music is highly expressive and reflects the emotional content of the text. The piece is a testament to Benda's skill as a composer and his ability to create music that is both beautiful and meaningful.

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