FOUR SONG SETTINGS OF HEINRICH HEINE BY FANNY MENDELSSOHN-HENSEL

Abstract

This study examines four lied settings of Heinrich Heine by Fanny Mendelssohn Hensel. In this document, details of each Heine poem, “Und Wüssten’s die Blumen,” “Allnächtlich im Traume,” “Ein Fichtenbaum steht einsam” and “Ich Wandelte Unter Den Bäumen” are examined and the most interesting aspects of Hensel’s musical settings are discussed. Because these particular poems were also set for voice and piano by other composers who were acquainted with Fanny Hensel, dramatic elements in their lieder provide points of contrast and comparison with Hensel’s songs. Details of her interactions within the rich cultural milieu in which she lived and composed serve as a backdrop for the discussion of each song. This document consists of an introduction followed by six chapters. The introduction includes a brief account of Hensel’s accomplishments as a song composer and describes various aspects of the study. Chapter one offers general information concerning Hensel’s lieder and Heine’s literary works, especially his, Buch der Lieder and presents biographical details which include the influential people which surrounded Hensel’s and Heine’s lives. This chapter also explores the unusual relationship between the Mendelssohn siblings and Heine. Chapters two through five highlight interesting features in each of the selected lieder and include a discussion of pertinent biographical information related to the creation of each song. In chapter six, conclusions drawn from the study of each lied are presented, as well as suggestions for further work on the topic of Hensel’s lieder.