This forum is provided to discuss the four performances viewed online for “Schubert’s Erlking”. Make sure that you listen to the musical selection in the eBook several times before watching these videos. This will give you a better foundation from which to make an comparison of these four performances.
Comments could address any of the following topics:
Each performance is in a different language AND/or has a different interpretation of this piece. This is presented in German, French, and Japanese. Does the language effect your appreciation for the story and the music? Which is most effective? Which is least effective? Why?
The last performance is a modern-day reinterpretation by a children’s group. Is this an adequate re-interpretation? Do you think Schubert would have approved? Do you approve? Does the up-beat tempo and new instrumentation change the story’s affect for this work?
The performance in Japanese adds additional voices to the harmony for dramatic effect. What do you think of this? Does it distract or add to the story’s terror?
For Jessye Norman’s performance; discuss the absolute clarity in the diction, the phrasing, the musicality and the emotional expression of the storyline.
[Jessye Norman (September 15, 1945 – September 30, 2019) was an American opera singer. Norman was one of the most admired contemporary opera singers and recitalists, and was one of the highest paid performers in classical music. She was a true dramatic soprano with a majestic stage presence. Norman was known for the direct and emotionally expressive qualities of her singing and for her formidable intellectual understanding of the music and its style, as well as first-rate musicianship.]
Compare and contrast the four performances with the recording provided in the eBook — which do you prefer and why?
