Schubert's Erlkönig

As our Schubert saga draws to a close in Episode #89, we embark on a riveting exploration of the composer's most famous art song, "Der Erlkönig." Join me on Busy Kids Love Music as we unravel the mysteries of this haunting composition, decipher the essence of an art song, and immerse ourselves in the spine-chilling narrative penned by none other than the legendary Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. **Unveiling the Art Song:** Ever wondered what defines an art song? In Episode #89, I demystify the concept as we unravel the layers of "Der Erlkönig." Schubert, a master of musical storytelling, brings Goethe's poetic narrative to life through the marriage of voice and piano. Prepare to be captivated by the seamless integration of vocal and instrumental elements, creating a truly immersive musical experience. **A Spooky Tale of Tragedy:** The spotlight is on Goethe's spine-chilling poem, which serves as the foundation for "Der Erlkönig." Journey into a world of supernatural encounters, where a father and his ailing child encounter the ominous Erlkönig, a malevolent spirit. Schubert's genius lies in his ability to weave the characters of the poem using the evocative powers of voice and piano. Discover the tragedy and tension that unfold through the haunting melodies of this renowned art song. **The Characters Unveiled:** In this episode, we delve into the distinct characters that populate "Der Erlkönig." Through Schubert's musical craftsmanship, the father, the child, and the eerie Erlkönig come to life, each portrayed with distinctive musical elements. As we dissect the composition, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry that transforms a simple poem into a multifaceted musical narrative. **Episode #89: A Deep Dive into "Der Erlkönig":** Don't miss the final chapter of our Schubert series in Episode #89. We take a deep dive into the intricacies of "Der Erlkönig," exploring its literary origins, musical construction, and the emotional resonance that has solidified its place as one of Schubert's iconic works. Links Mentioned in this Episode: Episode 87: The Life and Music of Franz Schubert Episode 88: Ave Maria Music Heard in this Episode: Schubert - Der Erlkönig (complete version) Subscribe & Review in Apple Podcasts Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, head on over to do that today so you don’t miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in Apple Podcasts! If you’re feeling extra magnanimous, I would be really grateful if you left a review over on Apple Podcasts, too. Those reviews help other families find my podcast learn more about music. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what you love about Busy Kids Love Music. Thanks!