Composer

:

Hugo Wolf

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song

Compose Date

:

Jan 11, 1889

Average_duration

:

5:18

Ganymed is a song cycle composed by Hugo Wolf in 1889, based on the poem of the same name by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. The cycle consists of three movements and is considered one of Wolf's most famous works. The premiere of Ganymed took place in Vienna in 1890, with the composer himself accompanying the singer. The cycle was an instant success and has since become a staple of the art song repertoire. The first movement, "Ganymed," is a setting of Goethe's poem of the same name. The poem tells the story of the Greek mythological figure Ganymede, who was abducted by Zeus and made the cupbearer of the gods. Wolf's setting of the poem is characterized by its soaring melodies and lush harmonies, which capture the ecstatic nature of the text. The second movement, "Phidyle," is a setting of a poem by Horace. The poem tells the story of a young woman who is in love with a man who does not return her affections. Wolf's setting of the poem is characterized by its gentle, flowing melody and delicate accompaniment, which perfectly capture the melancholic nature of the text. The final movement, "Anakreons Grab," is a setting of a poem by Goethe. The poem tells the story of the Greek poet Anacreon, who is buried in a tomb adorned with flowers and wine. Wolf's setting of the poem is characterized by its lively, dance-like rhythms and playful melodies, which perfectly capture the joyful nature of the text. Overall, Ganymed is a masterpiece of the art song repertoire, characterized by its lush harmonies, soaring melodies, and sensitive treatment of the text. It remains a beloved work of classical music to this day.

More....