Composer

:

Felix Mendelssohn

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Choral

Compose Date

:

Nov 14, 1839

Publication Date

:

1849

Average_duration

:

2:50

Abendständchen, Op. 75/2 is a vocal quartet composed by Felix Mendelssohn in 1847. The piece was premiered in Leipzig on January 1, 1848, and was published the same year by Breitkopf & Härtel. The piece consists of three movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement is marked "Andante con moto" and is in the key of E-flat major. It begins with a gentle, flowing melody in the soprano voice, which is then taken up by the other voices in turn. The harmonies are rich and lush, with frequent use of suspensions and other chromatic devices. The overall effect is one of peaceful serenity, perfectly suited to the evening setting of the text. The second movement is marked "Allegro moderato" and is in the key of C minor. It is a more lively and rhythmic section, with a driving accompaniment in the piano. The vocal lines are more declamatory, with frequent use of syncopation and other rhythmic devices. The harmonies are more complex, with frequent modulations and chromaticism. The overall effect is one of joyful celebration, as the text speaks of the beauty of the night and the stars. The final movement is marked "Andante" and is in the key of E-flat major. It returns to the gentle, flowing character of the first movement, with a simple, lyrical melody in the soprano voice. The other voices provide a rich harmonic backdrop, with frequent use of suspensions and other chromatic devices. The overall effect is one of peaceful contemplation, as the text speaks of the beauty of the night and the stars. Overall, Abendständchen, Op. 75/2 is a beautiful and expressive vocal quartet, perfectly suited to the evening setting of the text. Mendelssohn's use of rich harmonies, chromaticism, and rhythmic devices creates a sense of serenity, joy, and contemplation, perfectly capturing the beauty of the night and the stars.

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