Composer

:

Walter Braunfels

Genre

:

Vocal

Compose Date

:

1916-1918

Average_duration

:

15:44

Movement_count

:

2

Movement ....

Walter Braunfels' 'Hölderlin-Gesänge (2), Op. 27' is a song cycle composed in 1928. The work was premiered in Frankfurt on January 27, 1929, with the composer himself at the piano. The cycle consists of two movements, each setting a poem by the German poet Friedrich Hölderlin. The first movement, 'Hälfte des Lebens' (Half of Life), is a setting of Hölderlin's poem of the same name. The poem reflects on the poet's own life, and the passing of time. Braunfels' setting is introspective and melancholic, with a sense of resignation and acceptance of the inevitability of aging. The piano accompaniment is sparse and delicate, supporting the vocal line without overpowering it. The second movement, 'Der Main' (The Main), is a setting of Hölderlin's poem about the river that runs through Frankfurt. The poem celebrates the beauty and power of the river, and Braunfels' setting is accordingly more lively and energetic than the first movement. The piano accompaniment is more complex, with a sense of movement and flow that reflects the river's own movement. Overall, 'Hölderlin-Gesänge (2), Op. 27' is a work of great emotional depth and sensitivity. Braunfels' settings of Hölderlin's poems capture the essence of the poet's words, and the music is both beautiful and poignant. The work is a testament to the enduring power of poetry and music to move and inspire us.

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