Composer

:

Arnold Schoenberg

Genre

:

Orchestral

Style

:

Tone Poem

Compose Date

:

1902 - 1903

Average_duration

:

41:31

Movement_count

:

11

Movement ....

Arnold Schoenberg's 'Pelleas und Melisande, Op. 5' is a symphonic poem that was composed in 1902-1903. It premiered on January 25, 1905, in Vienna, conducted by Alexander von Zemlinsky. The piece is based on the play 'Pelléas et Mélisande' by Maurice Maeterlinck. The symphonic poem is divided into three movements. The first movement, 'Langsam', is slow and mysterious, setting the tone for the piece. The second movement, 'Sehr rasch', is fast and intense, representing the passion between Pelleas and Melisande. The final movement, 'Sehr langsam', is slow and mournful, representing the tragic ending of the story. Schoenberg's use of harmony in 'Pelleas und Melisande' is notable. He employs a technique called 'Klangfarbenmelodie', which translates to 'tone-color melody'. This technique involves using different instruments to play different notes of a melody, creating a unique and colorful sound. Schoenberg also uses dissonant harmonies to create tension and unease, reflecting the dark and mysterious nature of the story. Overall, 'Pelleas und Melisande, Op. 5' is a haunting and evocative piece of music that captures the essence of Maeterlinck's play. Schoenberg's use of innovative techniques and his mastery of orchestration make this symphonic poem a landmark work in the history of music.

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