Composer

:

Johannes Brahms

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song

Compose Date

:

1877

Average_duration

:

2:16

'O Kühler Wald, Op. 72/3' is a German art song composed by Johannes Brahms in 1877. It is the third song in his Opus 72 collection, which consists of five songs for voice and piano. The text of the song is a poem by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, which describes the beauty and tranquility of a cool forest. The song premiered on November 20, 1877, in Vienna, Austria, with Brahms accompanying the baritone singer, Julius Stockhausen. The song is in the key of E-flat major and has a moderate tempo. It is approximately four minutes long. The song is divided into three distinct sections or movements. The first movement begins with a gentle piano introduction, which sets the mood for the song. The singer then enters, singing the first verse of the poem. The melody is simple and flowing, with a sense of calm and serenity. The second movement is more dramatic and intense. The piano accompaniment becomes more complex, and the singer's voice becomes more forceful. The lyrics describe the power and majesty of the forest, with its towering trees and rushing streams. The final movement returns to the peaceful mood of the opening. The piano accompaniment is once again gentle and flowing, and the singer's voice becomes softer and more introspective. The lyrics describe the tranquility of the forest, with its cool shade and gentle breezes. Overall, 'O Kühler Wald, Op. 72/3' is a beautiful and evocative song that captures the essence of Goethe's poem. Brahms' music perfectly complements the text, creating a sense of peace and tranquility that transports the listener to the cool, shady forest.

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