Composer

:

Franz Liszt

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Hymn

Publication Date

:

1875

First Performance

:

Jun 17, 1875

Average_duration

:

10:45

Franz Liszt's 'Hymne de l'enfant à son réveil' is a choral work that was composed in 1844. It was premiered in the same year in Paris, with Liszt himself conducting the performance. The work is scored for chorus, harmonium, and harp, and it is divided into three movements. The first movement of the 'Hymne de l'enfant à son réveil' is marked 'Andante sostenuto' and is in the key of E-flat major. It begins with a gentle, flowing melody in the harmonium and harp, which is then taken up by the chorus. The text of this movement is a poem by Victor Hugo, which describes a child waking up to the beauty of the world around them. The music is delicate and ethereal, with a sense of wonder and innocence. The second movement is marked 'Allegro moderato' and is in the key of C minor. It begins with a more forceful and dramatic melody in the harmonium and harp, which is then echoed by the chorus. The text of this movement is also by Victor Hugo, and it describes the child's realization of the suffering and injustice in the world. The music is more intense and passionate, with a sense of anger and defiance. The third and final movement is marked 'Andante sostenuto' and is in the key of E-flat major. It returns to the gentle, flowing melody of the first movement, but with a sense of resolution and hope. The text of this movement is a prayer by Victor Hugo, asking for peace and justice in the world. The music is serene and uplifting, with a sense of transcendence and spiritual awakening. Overall, the 'Hymne de l'enfant à son réveil' is a beautiful and moving work that captures the innocence, wonder, and idealism of childhood, as well as the harsh realities of the world we live in. It showcases Liszt's skill as a composer of choral music, as well as his ability to convey complex emotions and ideas through music.

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