Composer

:

Robert Schumann

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Mass

Compose Date

:

1852

Average_duration

:

40:44

Movement_count

:

6

Movement ....

Robert Schumann's Mass in C minor, Op. 147, was composed in 1852, during the last years of his life. The work was premiered in Leipzig on April 6, 1852, just a few months before Schumann's attempted suicide and subsequent institutionalization. The Mass in C minor is divided into six movements: Kyrie, Gloria, Credo, Sanctus, Benedictus, and Agnus Dei. The work is scored for four soloists (soprano, alto, tenor, and bass), mixed choir, and orchestra. Schumann's Mass in C minor is characterized by its rich harmonies, expressive melodies, and dramatic contrasts. The work is deeply rooted in the tradition of the Catholic Mass, but Schumann's unique musical language is evident throughout. The Kyrie opens with a solemn choral invocation, followed by a fugue that showcases Schumann's contrapuntal skill. The Gloria is a jubilant movement that features a lively choral fugue and a soaring soprano solo. The Credo is the longest movement of the Mass, and it is marked by its dramatic contrasts and expressive melodies. The Sanctus is a majestic movement that features a soaring choral melody and a thrilling fugue. The Benedictus is a lyrical movement that features a beautiful tenor solo. The Agnus Dei is a somber movement that features a haunting choral melody and a plaintive soprano solo. Schumann's Mass in C minor is a testament to his mastery of choral and orchestral writing, as well as his ability to infuse traditional forms with his own unique musical language. Despite its relative obscurity, the Mass in C minor is a powerful and moving work that deserves to be heard and appreciated.

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