Composer

:

Gustav Mahler

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song: Art Song

Compose Date

:

Jul 8, 1893

Publication Date

:

1899

First Performance

:

Jan 29, 1906

Average_duration

:

4:20

"Des Antonius von Padua Fischpredigt" is a cantata composed by Gustav Mahler in 1893. The piece is based on a poem by August Kopisch, which tells the story of Saint Anthony of Padua preaching to the fish in the river. The cantata is written for solo baritone, mixed choir, and orchestra, and is divided into three movements. The premiere of "Des Antonius von Padua Fischpredigt" took place on August 31, 1893, in Kassel, Germany. The piece was conducted by Mahler himself, who was then the music director of the Kassel Opera. The solo baritone part was sung by the German baritone Anton Sistermans. The first movement of the cantata is marked "Allegro maestoso" and begins with a majestic orchestral introduction. The choir then enters with a hymn-like setting of the first stanza of the poem. The baritone soloist then enters, singing the words of Saint Anthony as he addresses the fish. The music is characterized by its grandeur and solemnity, with the choir and orchestra providing a rich and powerful accompaniment to the soloist. The second movement is marked "Andante moderato" and is a more introspective and contemplative section. The choir sings a setting of the second stanza of the poem, which describes the fish listening attentively to Saint Anthony's sermon. The baritone soloist then sings a lyrical and expressive aria, reflecting on the beauty and wonder of nature. The final movement is marked "Allegro energico" and is a lively and exuberant section. The choir sings a setting of the third stanza of the poem, which describes the fish jumping out of the water in response to Saint Anthony's preaching. The baritone soloist then sings a joyful and triumphant aria, celebrating the power of faith and the wonders of creation. The movement ends with a rousing chorus, in which the choir and orchestra join together in a joyful and exultant finale. Overall, "Des Antonius von Padua Fischpredigt" is a powerful and expressive work, showcasing Mahler's skill as a composer of choral and orchestral music. The piece is characterized by its grandeur, solemnity, and exuberance, and is a testament to Mahler's ability to create music that is both deeply spiritual and emotionally stirring.

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