Lieder

Lieder, or art songs as they cheekily prefer to call themselves, sprang up in early 19th century Germany when composers decided that poetry and piano could have a cozier relationship than most couples. Characterised by a delightful interplay between the voice and piano, these charming little tunes often explore the ups and downs of love, nature, and occasionally why the weather's rather miserable. The genre has influenced countless musicians, proving that if you can squeeze a proper poem into a catchy melody, you might just win the heart of an entire concert hall.