An die ferne Geliebte (fur Singstimme und Klavier) Op. 98

To whom did Beethoven address this song cycle An die ferne Geliebte (To the Distant Beloved), which he completed at the age of 45 in April of 1816? Was it to the same person to whom his passionate letter to "the Immortal Beloved" had been addressed in 1812? The source of Beethoven's song text is also shrouded in mystery. We only know the poet's name, Alois Jeitteles, a budding doctor and writer, about whose relationship with Beethoven we have no details. Whatever else, these songs provide a moving insight into the composer's inner state as he managed to find new creative strength after a difficult year. This song cycle has been edited by Helga Luhning and is presented in the original keys for high voice with piano accompaniment.