Sonata She Wrote: Schubert's "Der Lindenbaum" Analysis

Introduction

• Topic: Analysis of the fifth song in Schubert's cycle "Die Winterreise," "Der Lindenbaum" (The Linden Tree).
• Symbolism: The linden tree is a common motif in German art, symbolizing a rendezvous for lovers and a positive representation of nature.
• Themes: Duality of past and present, major and minor modes, classical and folk idioms.

Musical Structure

• Introduction: Begins with a piano introduction representing wind through branches.
  • Purpose: Transports The Wanderer from his winter journey to the past.
  • Harmonics:
    • Simplistic yet contrasting introduction and first verse.
    • The introduction acts as a "wordless process" that leads to memory articulation.

Role of the Linden Tree

• The Wanderer hears rustling associated with memory of the linden tree.
• Memory Activations:
  • Remembers carving initials, being transported to the past.
  • The piano introduction signifies the learned style while the vocals are simpler, representing folk song style.

Vocal and Piano Contrast

• Vocals:
  • Simplistic phrases often ending in dominant tonic cadences.
  • Sections are popular for having a narrow vocal range.
• Folk and Learned Style Dichotomy:
  • Present through the introduction and the song.

Present vs. Memory

• Icy Wind: Present situation interjects through introductory music in minor key.
• Temptation of Rest (Death):
  • The tree tempts The Wanderer with peace in death, which he rejects.
  • Music switches styles to represent the struggle against this temptation.

Harmonic Elements

• Schubert's Emphasis: Struggle of rejecting death.
  • Piano switches to heightened lead style.
  • Vocal line is a variation of the original melody.
• Chord Usage:
  • Dominant chord (B major) and flattened sixth chord (C major) signify temptation and deception.
  • Cadence: Rejection of death is a deceptive cadence.

Conclusion and Repetition

• Song's End: Repeats introductory material, signifying memory's hold.
  • Weakened Cadence: Dominant resolves softly to tonic, a "soft sigh."
  • Cycle's Theme: References to death weaken The Wanderer's resolve over time.

Closing Remarks

• Support: Encouragement to support the channel on Patreon.
• Upcoming: Next analysis is on the sixth song, "Wasserflut."