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Frauenliebe Und Leben, Rose I. Bolstad

All Master's Theses

The song cycle, Frauenliebe und Leben, composed by Robert Schumann to a text by Adelbert von Chamisso, is particularly effective when the complete cycle is performed. This author, performing and studying the cyrcle, found that the piano accompaniment frequently moves independently of the vocal line, though it is an integral part of the cycle. The rhythmic patterns are designed to bring out the expressive quality of the text. Harmonic devices include extensive use of chromatic alterations, irresolution of chords, and free modulation. Finally, the vocal interpretation requires a singer with considerable poetic sensitivity.