This edition was prepared by Richard Mix — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
Der Wachtelschlag, WoO 129
Staff Notation • Secular, Lieder
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Der Wachtelschlag, WoO 129 by Ludwig van Beethoven — Lyrics
Horch, wie schallt's dorten so lieblich hervor!
Fürchte Gott! fürchte Gott! ruft mir die Wachtel in's Ohr.
Sitzend im Grünen, von Halmen umhüllt,
mahnt sie den Horcher am Saatengefild:
liebe Gott! liebe Gott! Er ist so gütig und mild.
Wieder bedeutet ihr hüpfender Schlag:
lobe Gott! der dich zu lohnen vermag.
Siehst du die herrlichen Früchte im Feld?
Nimm es zu Herzen, Bewohner der Welt!
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About Der Wachtelschlag, WoO 129
Beethoven's Der Wachtelschlag is a charming secular Lied for solo voice. The music captures the playful, repetitive call of the quail, mimicking its song through cheerful melodic figures and a light, staccato accompaniment. The text, in German, is a simple devotional piece, urging the listener to remember and praise God in all aspects of life – from the bounty of nature and the changing seasons to the challenges of war. The song encourages gratitude, faith, and trust in divine providence. Its intimate character and gentle message make it a delightful miniature reflecting the composer's lighter, pastoral side.
