Composer

:

Alexander von Zemlinsky

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1896

Average_duration

:

1:31

"Nun schwillt der See so bang" is a composition by Alexander von Zemlinsky, a prominent Austrian composer of the early 20th century. The piece was composed in 1913 and premiered in Vienna the same year. It is a song cycle consisting of six movements, each of which is based on a poem by the German poet Maurice Maeterlinck. The first movement, "Nun schwillt der See so bang," sets the tone for the entire cycle. It is a haunting and atmospheric piece that captures the sense of unease and foreboding that permeates Maeterlinck's poetry. The music is characterized by its use of dissonance and chromaticism, which create a sense of tension and instability. The second movement, "Die drei Schwestern," is a more lyrical and melodic piece that features a beautiful vocal line accompanied by a delicate piano part. The third movement, "Die stille Stadt," is a somber and introspective piece that explores themes of loss and grief. The fourth movement, "Als ihr Geliebter schied," is a dramatic and intense piece that features a powerful vocal performance accompanied by a driving piano part. The fifth movement, "Und kehrt er einst heim," is a more hopeful and optimistic piece that looks forward to a future reunion with a loved one. The final movement, "Wir beide wollen springen," is a lively and energetic piece that brings the cycle to a close on a joyful and celebratory note. Throughout the cycle, Zemlinsky's music perfectly captures the mood and tone of Maeterlinck's poetry, creating a powerful and evocative work that is both haunting and beautiful.

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