Composer

:

Franz Schubert

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song

Compose Date

:

Mar 1, 1815

Average_duration

:

5:25

"Amphiaraos, D. 166" is a cantata composed by Franz Schubert in 1815. The piece was premiered on February 28, 1815, at the Vienna Gesellschaft der Musikfreunde. The cantata is divided into three movements and is scored for solo tenor, mixed choir, and orchestra. The first movement, "Amphiaraos' Song," is a recitative and aria for the tenor soloist. The text, written by Franz von Schober, tells the story of Amphiaraos, a Greek hero who was swallowed up by the earth during a battle. The music is dramatic and intense, with the orchestra providing a powerful accompaniment to the tenor's impassioned singing. The second movement, "Chorus of the Furies," is a choral piece that features the mixed choir. The text describes the Furies, the goddesses of vengeance in Greek mythology, and their desire to punish those who have committed crimes. The music is dark and foreboding, with the choir singing in a menacing and dissonant manner. The final movement, "Amphiaraos' Death," is another recitative and aria for the tenor soloist. The text describes Amphiaraos' death and his acceptance of his fate. The music is mournful and reflective, with the orchestra providing a somber accompaniment to the tenor's singing. Overall, "Amphiaraos, D. 166" is a powerful and dramatic work that showcases Schubert's skill as a composer. The piece is notable for its use of Greek mythology as a subject matter, which was unusual for the time. The music is intense and emotional, with Schubert's gift for melody and harmony on full display.

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