When Luise Burned the Letters

A scene rather than a confession

Luise is burning letters, but destroying the paper does not automatically remove what it recalls. Gabriele von Baumberg’s text gives the singer a situation to act through, not merely a general feeling of sadness. Work out whom each sentence addresses before deciding how intensely to sing it.

Let the thought change the sound

Speak the poem in order and mark each change of intention. Try a passage first as a command and then as a recollection; notice which reading fits its place in the scene. Rehearse those turns with the pianist so the response comes from both players. This concerns dramatic clarity, not adding unmarked effects.

Music in this edition

1. When Luise Burned the Letters