Composer

:

Richard Strauss

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song: Art Song

Compose Date

:

1894

Average_duration

:

2:18

Cäcilie, Op. 27/2 is a song composed by Richard Strauss in 1894. It was premiered on November 17, 1894, in Berlin, with the composer himself accompanying the singer, the soprano Marie Renard. The song is part of a set of four songs, collectively known as Vier Lieder, Op. 27. Cäcilie is a love song, with lyrics written by the composer's friend and frequent collaborator, the poet Heinrich Hart. The song is in the key of A major and is written for a high soprano voice. It is a relatively short song, lasting just over three minutes. The song is divided into three distinct sections or movements. The first section is marked "Sehr rasch" (very fast) and is characterized by a lively, syncopated piano accompaniment. The soprano enters with a soaring melody that is full of passion and intensity. The lyrics describe the singer's overwhelming love for the titular character, Cäcilie, and the joy that she brings to his life. The second section is marked "Etwas langsamer" (somewhat slower) and is more introspective in nature. The piano accompaniment becomes more subdued, and the soprano's melody becomes more lyrical and expressive. The lyrics describe the singer's desire to be with Cäcilie forever and his fear that their love may not last. The final section is marked "Bewegt" (moving) and is a return to the energy and passion of the opening section. The piano accompaniment becomes more complex, and the soprano's melody becomes more virtuosic. The lyrics describe the singer's overwhelming happiness at being with Cäcilie and his belief that their love will endure. Overall, Cäcilie is a beautiful and passionate love song that showcases Strauss's skill as a composer and his ability to create music that is both emotionally powerful and technically impressive. It remains a popular choice for sopranos and is frequently performed in recitals and concerts around the world.

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