Composer

:

Jean Sibelius

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song

Compose Date

:

1891

Average_duration

:

21:05

Movement_count

:

7

Movement ....

Jean Sibelius' 'Songs of Runeberg (7), Op. 13' is a collection of seven songs that were composed between 1890 and 1892. The songs are based on the poems of Johan Ludvig Runeberg, a Finnish poet who is considered to be the national poet of Finland. The premiere of the songs took place in Helsinki in 1892. The seven songs in the collection are: 1. Under strandens granar (Under the Fir Trees by the Shore) 2. Kaiutar (Echo Nymph) 3. Pa verandan vid havet (On the Veranda by the Sea) 4. Varen flyktar hastigt (Spring is Flying) 5. En slanda (A Dragonfly) 6. Flickan kom ifran sin alsklings mote (The Girl Came from Meeting Her Lover) 7. Varen flyktar hastigt (Spring is Flying) The songs are characterized by their romantic and nationalistic themes, which were common in Finnish music during the late 19th century. Sibelius' use of folk melodies and traditional Finnish harmonies is evident in the songs, which are also notable for their use of chromaticism and complex harmonies. The first song, 'Under strandens granar', is a gentle and melancholic piece that features a simple melody and a delicate accompaniment. 'Kaiutar', the second song, is a more lively and energetic piece that features a fast-paced melody and a driving rhythm. 'Pa verandan vid havet', the third song, is a slow and contemplative piece that features a haunting melody and a sparse accompaniment. 'Varen flyktar hastigt', the fourth song, is a lively and joyful piece that features a fast-paced melody and a lively accompaniment. The fifth song, 'En slanda', is a delicate and ethereal piece that features a simple melody and a sparse accompaniment. 'Flickan kom ifran sin alsklings mote', the sixth song, is a dramatic and emotional piece that features a powerful melody and a rich accompaniment. The final song, 'Varen flyktar hastigt', is a reprise of the fourth song and serves as a fitting conclusion to the collection. Overall, Sibelius' 'Songs of Runeberg' are a beautiful and evocative tribute to the Finnish national poet and a testament to the composer's skill and creativity.

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