Composer

:

Clara Wieck Schumann

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song

Compose Date

:

Jun 8, 1841

Publication Date

:

1841

Average_duration

:

2:10

"Liebst du um Schönheit, Op. 12/4" is a Lied composed by Clara Wieck Schumann in 1841. It was premiered in Leipzig on January 1, 1842, with the composer at the piano and the famous soprano Wilhelmine Schröder-Devrient as the singer. The song is part of a set of six Lieder, Op. 12, which were dedicated to the composer's husband, Robert Schumann. The song is written for voice and piano and has a simple ABA form. The first and last sections are in the same key and have the same melody, while the middle section is in a contrasting key and has a different melody. The text is a poem by Friedrich Rückert, which speaks of the beauty of love and how it can transform a person's life. The song begins with a gentle and flowing piano introduction, which sets the mood for the romantic and tender text. The first section is in a slow and lyrical tempo, with the voice singing the melody in a legato style. The piano accompaniment is delicate and supportive, with arpeggios and broken chords creating a sense of movement and fluidity. The middle section is in a faster tempo and a different key, which creates a sense of contrast and tension. The melody is more angular and fragmented, with the voice singing in a staccato style. The piano accompaniment is more rhythmic and percussive, with chords and octaves creating a sense of energy and drive. The final section returns to the original key and melody, with the voice singing in a more expressive and passionate style. The piano accompaniment is more elaborate and virtuosic, with runs and flourishes creating a sense of excitement and climax. The song ends with a gentle and peaceful coda, which brings the music to a close. Overall, "Liebst du um Schönheit, Op. 12/4" is a beautiful and expressive Lied, which showcases Clara Wieck Schumann's talent as a composer and pianist. The song is characterized by its lyrical melodies, delicate piano accompaniment, and expressive text, which speak of the transformative power of love.

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