Melodramas for Piano by Richard Strauss: Specifics of the Transformation of the Genre (to the 160th Anniversary of the Composer's Birth)

Abstract

The creative heritage of the outstanding German composer, conductor, theoretician and teacher, cultural and public figure Richard Shtrauss (1864–1949) is considered in the aspect of its modern art studies. Features of the composer's musical style, primarily program music and musical aesthetics of his piano works «Enoch Arden» and «Castle by the Sea» are highlighted. Comparative, historical-logical approaches and methods of musical-interpretive analysis are applied, including a comparison of stylistic and intonation features of works of the genre of melodrama in the works of R. Shtrauss. For the first time, the symphonization of R. Shtrauss' melodramas was analyzed, where the music acquires an independent dramatic content and a corresponding structural composition. The composer’s innovative approach to the interpretation of the melodrama genre is revealed, revealing the author's innovative approaches to thematism, musical dramaturgy and structure, symphonization of the development and transformational features of the genre.

The purpose of the publication is to reveal the features of the symphonization of melodramas for piano in the works of Richard Shtrauss. To take into account that in his works music is not limited to the function of accompaniment (accompaniment), but becomes a full-fledged dramatic element that develops the plot and helps reveal the psychological experiences of the characters. Continue the analysis of R. Shtrauss's melodramas, which allows us to reveal innovative approaches to thematism, structural organization of music, and the interaction of musical themes with the literary primary source, which expands the idea of the composer’s contribution to the development of piano instrumentalism. The melodramas of R. Shtrauss «Enoch Arden» and «The Castle by the Sea» are important examples of the evolution of the genre of melodrama in piano music of the 20th century. They reflect not only the traditions of pop and concert melodeclamation, but also demonstrate new approaches to the construction of musical material. R. Shtrauss reformed the genre, creating works that have an independent symphonic logic of development. His music for melodramas is characterized by complex thematic content, tonal dramaturgy, and the use of contrasting themes symbolizing different aspects of the plot. Melodramas expand the repertoire of modern pianists, offering new tasks for performers who need a mastery of technique and a sense of the drama of music. For the performers of R. Shtrauss' melodramas, it is a difficult task, as they require an understanding of intonation logic, accurate reproduction of thematic transitions, and work with agog. Musical themes require various technical techniques, which makes melodramas interesting for theoretical study and practical performance.

In memory of the composer, the Richard Shtrauss Festival of Classical Music (Richard Shtrauss Festival) is held every year in the estate of Garmisch-Partenkirchen (a city in the district of Upper Bavaria in southern Germany), where the music of R. Strauss is performed by famous conductors, orchestras and performers for a week. Further research requires an art analysis of other piano works by R. Shtrauss and their role in the development of chamber music of the 20th century. There is also a need to investigate the aesthetic basis of R. Shtrauss’ work and the specifics of the transformation of genre traditions, considering the interrelationship of musical and literary forms, as well as their influence on modern trends of musical and stage drama in Ukraine and the world.