Schubert's Serenade (Ständchen), composed two years before his death, remarkably exemplifies the melancholic expression for which Schubert was widely recognized. However, it is Liszt who, with his mastery, offers a lush piano arrangement, further enhancing the beauty of the original composition.
Belonging to the category of his numerous lieder (known as "songs" in English, though today we associate the word 'lied' more directly with art songs), "Ständchen" was initially conceived for voice and piano, as per the lyrics presented below.
🎶
Whispering, the thin treetops rustle
In the moonlight;
The ear of the hostile gossip
Employed, do not fear.
Do you hear the nightingales singing?
Oh! they entreat you,
With the sounds of sweet lamentations
They implore for me.
They understand the longing in the chest,
Know the pain of love,
Stirring with their silvery tones
Every tender heart.
Let them also stir in your chest,
Darling, listen to me!
Trembling, I waited
for you.
Come, make me happy!
💕
