Arnold Schoenberg’s “Erwartung” (Expectation), composed in 1909, is a pivotal and groundbreaking work in the history of 20th-century music. As a monodrama for solo soprano and large orchestra, “Erwartung” represents Schoenberg’s departure from tonality and his exploration of expressionist themes in music.
The monodrama unfolds as a single, continuous, and intense dramatic scene, with the soprano portraying a character in a state of emotional turmoil and psychological distress. Schoenberg’s abandonment of traditional tonality allows for the expression of dissonance and chromaticism, amplifying the emotional intensity of the narrative.
One of the innovative features of “Erwartung” is Schoenberg’s use of Sprechstimme, a vocal technique that lies between speaking and singing. This allows the soprano to convey heightened emotion and urgency while maintaining a connection to the spoken word. The expressive vocal lines are complemented by the rich and complex orchestral score.
Thematically, “Erwartung” explores the psychological landscape of anticipation, fear, and anguish. The libretto, written by Marie Pappenheim, contributes to the psychological depth, creating a sense of mystery and suspense as the protagonist searches for a lost lover in a dark forest.
Comparing “Erwartung” with Schoenberg’s earlier works, such as his late-Romantic Verklärte Nacht or the atonal Pierrot Lunaire, reveals the composer’s evolving style and embrace of the Expressionist movement. “Erwartung” is a crucial work in Schoenberg’s trajectory toward atonality and the twelve-tone technique that would define his later compositions.
Schoenberg’s “Erwartung” remains a challenging and influential piece, demonstrating the composer’s ability to convey complex psychological states through innovative musical means. Its impact on 20th-century music extends beyond the realm of opera, influencing subsequent generations of composers and paving the way for the exploration of atonality and expressionism in classical music.
The Listening Project Blog 