Composer

:

Hans Sommer

Genre

:

Vocal

Compose Date

:

1884-1885

Average_duration

:

24:40

Movement_count

:

6

Movement ....

Sapphos Gesänge, Op. 6 is a song cycle composed by Hans Sommer, a German composer, in 1887. The cycle is based on poems by the ancient Greek poet Sappho, who is known for her lyrical poetry. The premiere of the cycle took place in Berlin in 1888, with the composer himself at the piano. The cycle consists of six movements, each of which is a setting of a different Sappho poem. The first movement, "Ode to Aphrodite," is a passionate plea to the goddess of love to help the speaker win the heart of her beloved. The second movement, "The Moon Has Set," is a melancholy reflection on lost love. The third movement, "The Stars Around the Beautiful Moon," is a celebration of the beauty of the night sky. The fourth movement, "He Seems to Me Equal to the Gods," is a tribute to the speaker's beloved, whom she compares to the gods. The fifth movement, "I Have a Beautiful Daughter," is a playful song about the speaker's daughter. The final movement, "Hymn to Aphrodite," is another tribute to the goddess of love. The music of Sapphos Gesänge, Op. 6 is characterized by its lyrical beauty and emotional intensity. Sommer's settings of the Sappho poems are sensitive and expressive, capturing the mood and meaning of each poem. The piano accompaniment is often virtuosic, adding to the drama and passion of the music. The vocal writing is also notable for its range and flexibility, allowing the singer to convey a wide range of emotions. Overall, Sapphos Gesänge, Op. 6 is a masterful example of the art song genre, showcasing the composer's skill in setting poetry to music. The cycle remains a popular choice for singers and audiences alike, and is considered one of Sommer's most important works.

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