A Performer’s Guide to Robert Schumann’s Song Cycles – Dichterliebe Op. 42 and Frauenliebe und -leben Op. 48
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Date
2021-07
Authors
Miao, Yaoyun
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Oregon
Abstract
The purpose of this document is to explore the text painting in Robert
Schuman’s art songs and how he realized the inner emotion of the poet through the
piano part. A general overview of Schumann’s life as both a composer and critic will
be presented. The musical materials to be covered in this document are Frauenliebe
und -leben Op. 42 and Dichterliebe Op. 48. Schumann was influenced by the
philosophers and artists of his time, and these influences are evident in his music. The
composer’s personal life, his aesthetics of poetry and music, the independent
functions of the structural and harmonic elements, and specific performance practices
will be thoroughly examined to establish the programmatic content that provides a
direct connection with the music itself. This document will provide a musical analysis
of two major works from the perspective of a collaborative pianist. Schumann’s
approach to text-painting and his exploration of the poet’s inner emotion will be
examined as well.
This study is a performer’s guide for professional musicians to more fully
realize the inner voice of the text, and it can also serve as a resource for amateurs to
learn more about Schumann’s songwriting genius.
Description
105 pages
Keywords
Schumann, text painting, piano part, poet, art songs, emotions