Composer

:

Johannes Brahms

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1877

Average_duration

:

4:50

"Edward, Op. 75/1" is a song composed by Johannes Brahms in 1877. It was premiered on January 20, 1878, in Vienna, with the composer himself at the piano and the baritone singer Anton Sistermanns. The song is part of a collection of five songs, collectively known as the "Five Songs, Op. 75," which Brahms composed for voice and piano. The song is set to a poem by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, which tells the story of a young man named Edward who is haunted by the memory of a lost love. The music is characterized by its melancholic and introspective mood, which perfectly captures the emotional turmoil of the protagonist. The song is divided into three distinct sections, each with its own musical character. The first section is marked "Andante con moto," and it begins with a simple and haunting melody played by the piano. The singer enters with the first verse, which is set to a gentle and flowing melody. The second verse is set to a more agitated and dramatic melody, which reflects the growing intensity of Edward's emotions. The second section of the song is marked "Poco più animato," and it begins with a sudden change in mood. The piano plays a series of rapid arpeggios, which create a sense of urgency and desperation. The singer enters with the third verse, which is set to a more declamatory and forceful melody. The music builds to a climax, as Edward expresses his anguish and despair. The final section of the song is marked "Andante," and it begins with a return to the gentle and introspective mood of the opening. The piano plays a simple and delicate melody, which is echoed by the singer in the final verse. The music gradually fades away, as Edward resigns himself to his fate. Overall, "Edward, Op. 75/1" is a powerful and moving song, which showcases Brahms' skill as a composer of lieder. The music perfectly captures the emotional depth and complexity of Goethe's poem, and it remains a beloved work in the repertoire of classical vocal music.

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