Alter Adam, du mußt sterben, TWV 1:90a

Georg Philipp Telemann

BaroqueSpecialistG minorAdagio3/4~3 min
H4
Henle (estimated)
RCM 7ABRSM 7

About this piece

Telemann's 'Old Adam, You Must Die' is a deeply expressive aria, likely a movement from a sacred work or cantata. Its title suggests a theme of mortality and spiritual reckoning, rendered with Baroque pathos.

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Teacher notes

Practice precise ornamentation and controlled dynamic shaping to enhance the expressive depth.

Technical focus

counterpointornamentationcantabilevoicing

Mood

contemplativemelancholicserene

Your status

Not in your repertoire

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Free sheet music on IMSLP

Frequently asked questions

How hard is Alter Adam, du mußt sterben, TWV 1:90a by Georg Philipp Telemann?

Alter Adam, du mußt sterben, TWV 1:90a is rated Henle level 4 of 9 — intermediate repertoire, roughly ABRSM grades 5–6. In the RCM system it corresponds to about level 7.

What level do I need to play Alter Adam, du mußt sterben, TWV 1:90a?

You should be comfortable at Henle level 4 — meaning you can already play level 3–4 pieces cleanly. Learning it one level early is possible as a stretch piece, but more than that usually leads to months of frustration.

How long is Alter Adam, du mußt sterben, TWV 1:90a?

A typical performance of Alter Adam, du mußt sterben, TWV 1:90a lasts about 3 minutes.

Where can I get free sheet music for Alter Adam, du mußt sterben, TWV 1:90a?

Alter Adam, du mußt sterben, TWV 1:90a is available as free public-domain sheet music on IMSLP — the score is linked directly from this page.