This edition was prepared by John K. Patterson — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Denn es gehet dem Menschen wie dem Vieh
Staff Notation • Sacred, Lieder
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Denn es gehet dem Menschen wie dem Vieh by Johannes Brahms — Lyrics
Denn es gehet dem Menschen wie dem Vieh,
wie dies stirbt, so stirbt er auch;
und haben alle einerlei Odem;
und der Mensch hat nichts mehr denn das Vieh:
denn es ist alles eitel, denn es ist alles eitel.
Es fährt alles an einen Ort;
es ist alles von Staub gemacht,
und wird wieder zu Staub.
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About Denn es gehet dem Menschen wie dem Vieh
These words, from the Book of Ecclesiastes, reflect on the shared mortality of humankind and beast, and the vanity of earthly striving. Brahms sets this text with profound introspection for solo baritone. The music explores the philosophical and somber mood of the passage, offering a contemplative musical meditation on life's transient nature and the search for meaning. The German text is delivered with expressive weight, highlighting the human condition as described in the ancient scripture. This work sits at the intersection of sacred contemplation and the intimate Lieder tradition.
