FRANZ SCHREKER Meaning and
Definition
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Franz Schreker (1878-1934) was an Austrian composer and conductor known for his contributions to the late Romantic and Expressionist genres of classical music. Born in Monaco, he studied composition with Robert Fuchs and Engelbert Humperdinck, and later became a professor at the Vienna Academy of Music and Performing Arts.
Schreker's musical style is characterized by lush harmonies, intricate orchestrations, and an emphasis on atmospherics and symbolism. He skillfully blended elements of Wagnerian opera, post-Romanticism, and avant-garde techniques of the early 20th century to create a unique and vibrant sound world. His works often explore psychological depth and mysterious narratives, delving into themes of desire, repression, and decay.
Notable compositions by Schreker include his operas "Der ferne Klang" (The Distant Sound), "Die Gezeichneten" (The Stigmatized), and "Der Schatzgräber" (The Treasure Hunter). These operas showcase his innovative use of orchestration and his ability to convey complex emotions through music.
Despite his initial success, Schreker's career was overshadowed by the rise of Nazi Germany. His music, deemed "degenerate" by the regime, was banned and performances of his works were suppressed. This had a profound impact on Schreker's health and mental state. He died in 1934, largely forgotten and under-appreciated, but his music has enjoyed a revival in recent decades, shedding new light on his significant contribution to the development of early 20th-century music.
Etymology of FRANZ SCHREKER
The word "Franz Schreker" is not derived from any specific etymology as it is simply the name of an individual. "Franz" derives from the Germanic name "Franciscus" or "Franziskus" which ultimately trace back to the Latin name "Franciscus" meaning "Frenchman" or "Free one". "Schreker" is a German surname, and its etymology can be traced to the Middle High German word "schreken", meaning "to frighten" or "to scare". Thus, "Schreker" can be interpreted as someone who frightens or scares others.
