Composer

:

Carl Loewe

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Song

Carl Loewe's 'Ballads (3), Op. 56' is a collection of three ballads for solo voice and piano. The collection was composed in 1837 and premiered in the same year. The three ballads are titled 'Edward', 'Die Glocke' (The Bell), and 'Archibald Douglas'. The first ballad, 'Edward', is based on a Scottish folk tale. The story revolves around a young man named Edward who is haunted by the ghost of his murdered lover. The ballad is in A minor and has a melancholic and haunting melody that perfectly captures the eerie atmosphere of the story. The second ballad, 'Die Glocke', is based on a poem by Friedrich Schiller. The poem tells the story of a bell that is cast in a small village and becomes a symbol of hope and freedom for the people. The ballad is in C major and has a triumphant and uplifting melody that reflects the joy and hope of the people. The third ballad, 'Archibald Douglas', is based on a Scottish ballad. The story is about a young man named Archibald Douglas who is falsely accused of murder and sentenced to death. The ballad is in E minor and has a dramatic and intense melody that perfectly captures the emotions of the story. Overall, 'Ballads (3), Op. 56' is a collection of three powerful and emotional ballads that showcase Carl Loewe's skill as a composer. The collection is characterized by its haunting melodies, dramatic storytelling, and emotional depth. It remains a popular choice for singers and pianists alike and is considered a masterpiece of the Romantic era.

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