Composer

:

Kurt Weill

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Chorus

Compose Date

:

1929

Publication Date

:

1930

First Performance

:

Nov 1929

Average_duration

:

2:28

"Zu Potsdam unter den Eichen" is a song composed by Kurt Weill in 1927. It premiered in the same year in Berlin, Germany. The song is part of the larger work "Die Dreigroschenoper" (The Threepenny Opera), which was a collaboration between Weill and Bertolt Brecht. The song is a duet between two characters, Polly Peachum and Lucy Brown, who are both in love with the same man, Macheath. The lyrics describe their desire to be with Macheath in the idyllic setting of Potsdam, under the shade of the oak trees. The music of "Zu Potsdam unter den Eichen" is characterized by its jaunty, upbeat melody and playful instrumentation. The use of a banjo and accordion gives the song a folksy, rustic feel, which contrasts with the sophisticated lyrics and vocal harmonies. The song is divided into three distinct movements. The first movement features a solo by Polly, in which she expresses her longing to be with Macheath in Potsdam. The second movement is a duet between Polly and Lucy, in which they sing together about their shared desire for Macheath. The final movement is a reprise of the first, with Polly singing alone once again. Overall, "Zu Potsdam unter den Eichen" is a charming and whimsical song that captures the playful spirit of "Die Dreigroschenoper". Its catchy melody and clever lyrics have made it a popular piece of music, both within the context of the larger work and as a standalone song.

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