Lyric Symphony
Alexander Zemlinsky
Work background
Researched classical background
Zemlinsky's Lyric Symphony joins seven settings of poems by Rabindranath Tagore in German translation. Soprano and baritone alternate and interact with the orchestra, tracing changing perspectives on love and separation. Recurring musical material links the songs into a symphonic span. The work belongs to the tradition of large orchestral song cycles as well as to the symphony.
Inspiration and creative background
Seven poems by Rabindranath Tagore supplied the text and dramatic progression.
American Symphony Orchestra: Zemlinsky Lyric Symphony
1922-23 chronology, Tagore poems and vocal design | Reviewed 2026-10-19
A listening guide
Hear how themes connect the alternating soprano and baritone sections.
Listening suggestions are editorial guides to the music.
Forces: Soprano, baritone and large orchestra
Composition: 1922-1923
This entry describes the musical work or cycle. Composition, premiere and publication dates describe different events. Performers and recordings can be explored through the external listening search.
Also known as: Lyrische Symphonie
American Symphony Orchestra: Zemlinsky Lyric Symphony
1922-23 chronology, Tagore poems and vocal design | Reviewed 2026-10-19
Sources for this work
American Symphony Orchestra: Zemlinsky Lyric Symphony
1922-23 chronology, Tagore poems and vocal design | Reviewed 2026-10-19
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