Composer

:

Hugo Wolf

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song

Compose Date

:

Dec 9, 1891

Average_duration

:

2:11

Hugo Wolf's 'Auch kleine Dinge (Italienisches Liederbuch)' is a song cycle composed between 1890 and 1896. The premiere of the cycle took place in Vienna in 1897. The cycle consists of 46 songs, divided into two volumes, and is based on Italian poems from various sources, including anonymous folk songs, medieval lyrics, and works by well-known poets such as Petrarch and Dante. The cycle is characterized by its intimate and delicate nature, with Wolf's music perfectly capturing the nuances of the Italian texts. The songs are generally short, with simple melodies and sparse accompaniment, allowing the beauty of the poetry to shine through. The cycle is also notable for its use of chromaticism and dissonance, which add a sense of tension and unease to the music. The first volume of the cycle consists of 22 songs, while the second volume contains 24. The songs are arranged thematically, with the first volume focusing on love and the second volume on life and death. The first volume includes such memorable songs as "Auch kleine Dinge," "Wie lange schon," and "Mein Liebster hat zu Tische mich geladen," while the second volume features such highlights as "Sterb' ich, so hüllt in Blumen meine Glieder," "Ein Ständchen Euch zu bringen kam ich her," and "Gesegnet sei, durch den die Welt entstund." Overall, 'Auch kleine Dinge (Italienisches Liederbuch)' is a masterful example of Wolf's artistry, showcasing his ability to create music that perfectly complements the poetry it sets. The cycle remains a beloved and frequently performed work in the art song repertoire.

More....