Composer

:

Johannes Brahms

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Quartet

Compose Date

:

1874

Average_duration

:

4:23

Johannes Brahms composed 'Der Abend, Op. 64/2' in 1874. The piece is a part of his 'Fünf Gesänge, Op. 64' (Five Songs, Op. 64) collection. The premiere of the collection took place on November 12, 1874, in Vienna, with Brahms himself accompanying the singers. 'Der Abend' is a lied, a type of German art song, and is written for four-part choir and piano. The piece has three movements, with the first and third movements being in a minor key, while the second movement is in a major key. The first movement is marked 'Andante con moto,' the second movement is marked 'Allegretto,' and the third movement is marked 'Andante.' The piece's characteristics are typical of Brahms's style, with rich harmonies, complex rhythms, and a melancholic mood. The first movement begins with a somber piano introduction, followed by the choir's entrance. The lyrics describe the end of the day and the coming of night, with the choir singing in unison and then breaking into four-part harmony. The second movement is more upbeat, with a lively piano accompaniment and a melody that is reminiscent of a folk song. The lyrics describe the beauty of nature and the joy of being alive. The third movement returns to the melancholic mood of the first movement, with the choir singing in a mournful tone. The lyrics describe the passing of time and the inevitability of death. Overall, 'Der Abend, Op. 64/2' is a beautiful and haunting piece of music that showcases Brahms's mastery of the art song genre. Its rich harmonies and complex rhythms make it a challenging piece for performers, but its emotional depth and beauty make it a rewarding piece for both performers and listeners.

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