Symphony No. 4

Johan de Meij's 4th Symphony for solo voice, children’s choir and wind orchestra is inspired by a variety of 19th century German poems. The first three movements use lyrics from the same source as Gustav Mahler did earlier: 'Kindertotenlieder' by Friedrich Rückert.1) Ein Jahr ist nun geschwunden 2) Wenn zur Thür herein 3) Wiedersehn The second half of the symphony continues on the death theme, using a poem by Heinrich Heine (‘Two Brothers’). The last two songs, ‘Early Spring’ and ‘Song of the Harlequin’ by Hugo von Hofmannsthal are a metaphor for rebirth, new life and hope.4) Zwei Brüder (Heinrich Heine)5) Vorfrühling (Hugo von Hofmannsthal)6) Liedchen des Harlekin (Hugo vonHofmannsthal)The symphony was written at the request of the South-Tirol Youth Wind Orchestra, for the annual Mahler Festival in Toblach/Dobaccio-Italy. The world premiere took place on July 24th, 2013 in Dobaccio, in attendance of the composer.