Ständchen (from 6 Schubertse Lieder)
Johann Kaspar Mertz
Franz Schubert (1797 - 1828) is well known for his large collection of songs, with cycles like Die Winterreise. Mostly his songs are published with piano accompanyment. An example of such a song is Ständchen. The instrumental theme of this song is also known as Serenade.
As an example of the romantic atmosphere, I’ll quote the (German) lyrics below. As you may notice, everything is in it, the yearning of the lover, the moonshine nights, the suspense...
Leise flehen meine Lieder
Durch die Nacht zu dir;
In den stillen Hain hernieder,
Liebchen, komm zu mir!
Flüsternd schlanke Wipfel rauschen
In des Mondes Licht;
Des Verräters feindlich Lauschen
Fürchte, Holde, nicht.
Hörst die Nachtigallen schlagen?
Ach! sie flehen dich,
Mit der Töne süßen Klagen
Flehen sie für mich.
Sie verstehn des Busens Sehnen,
Kennen Liebesschmerz,
Rühren mit den Silbertönen
Jedes weiche Herz.
Laß auch dir die Brust bewegen,
Liebchen, höre mich!
Bebend harr' ich dir entgegen!
Komm, beglücke mich!
This romantic material was also typical of Johann Kaspar Mertz (1806 - 1856). Add the fact that he came in touch with Romantic piano music via his wife Josephine Plantin and voila, there is the link with Franz Schubert.
Johann Kaspar Mertz composed a set of six arrangements of Schubert songs, with Ständchen amongst them. He remains quite faithful to the original (with the challenge for the guitarist to play pianistic constructions), yet he adds some atmospheric echo effects.
Don’t be fooled by the moderate tempo! This is a piece that requires concentrated attention for both technique and musicality. On completion you will have a beautiful and moving addition to your repertoire indeed!