Sergei Rachmaninoff a Paganini of the piano. Analysis of the lied Spring waters (Весенние воды- op.14, no.11)

Abstract

Vesennye vody (Весенние воды) is a composition through which the poem offers a reflection on the arrival of spring and the melting of winter snow, symbolizing the renewal of nature and the human spirit. The composition is characterized by its lyrical and expressive melody, which is a sign characteristic of Sergei Rachmaninoff's style. The vocal miniature is relatively short, but it evokes and captures the beauty and emotions associated with the arrival of the spring season. The article requires special attention to the complex analysis of the Vesennie vody lied, a musical-literary analysis as well as a Schenkerian analysis, which is represented by the aspects of voice leadership, by identifying the tonal functions and their role in the overall harmonic structure. The detailed analysis within the lie is carried out for the deep understanding of the structural relationships and provides valuable information on the intentions of the composer, by identifying the different structural levels, by the melodic line and the text.