Composer

:

Richard Strauss

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song: Art Song

Compose Date

:

1948

Average_duration

:

5:19

"Beim Schlafengehen" is a song composed by Richard Strauss, which is part of his Four Last Songs. The song was composed in 1948, just a year before Strauss's death, and was premiered posthumously in 1950. The song is the third movement of the Four Last Songs and is known for its serene and peaceful melody. The song is written for a soprano voice and orchestra, and the lyrics are based on a poem by Hermann Hesse. The poem describes the feeling of calmness and serenity that comes with the end of the day, as one prepares to go to sleep. The music reflects this sentiment, with a slow and gentle melody that is both soothing and contemplative. The song begins with a soft and delicate introduction from the orchestra, which sets the mood for the rest of the piece. The soprano enters with the first verse, singing of the peacefulness of the evening and the beauty of the stars in the sky. The melody is simple and understated, allowing the beauty of the words to shine through. As the song progresses, the music becomes more complex, with the orchestra providing a rich and lush accompaniment to the soprano's voice. The second verse speaks of the passing of time and the inevitability of death, but the music remains calm and serene, reflecting the acceptance of this fact. The final verse speaks of the hope and comfort that comes with the knowledge that one's soul will live on after death. The music builds to a climax, with the soprano's voice soaring above the orchestra, before resolving into a peaceful and tranquil conclusion. Overall, "Beim Schlafengehen" is a beautiful and moving piece of music, which captures the essence of the end of life and the acceptance of death. The music is characterized by its gentle and serene melody, which perfectly complements the peacefulness of the lyrics.

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