Degree Recital: Zachary Rude, MM Voice

Die Schöne Magelone is a 15 song cycle by Johannes Brahms based on the epic, Romantic poem by Ludwig Tieck. Each song is preceded by a chapter of prose which tells the story of Count Peter of Provence. Peter is inspired by a minstrel who tells of the wonders of travel. He promises adventure, glory, and the potential for love to the young Count. On his travels, Peter proves himself as a knight in tournaments, but his attention quickly becomes fixed on The Fair Magelone. He woes her with songs and a token of his affection: three rings given to Peter by his mother in hope that he gives them to the woman he is going to marry. Peter and The Fair Magelone decide to elope. However, on the night of their wedding, they are separated at sea by a terrible storm. Peter is captured by sailors from a warring nation, and The Fair Magelone finds shelter in a shepherd’s hut. They both wonder, “Must there be a separation?” Will the young couple ever find themselves together again?

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