Totenkranz fur ein Kind (Wreath for a Dead Child) (D. 275) from August, 25, 1815 is one of the profoundly affecting songs which Schubert wrote on the deaths of children. Like his other kindentotenlieder—Lied, Weigenlied, and Am Grabe Anselmos—Totenkranz fur ein Kind is anything but operatic. Like them, it is an intimate song which does not wail and rend its garments but rather treats its subject with respect and dignity. A short, strophic song in G minor almost hymn-like in its simplicity, Totenkranz fur ein Kind has a melody of small range but deep emotion and a piano accompaniment which follows close to it like a bereaved parent. Although not at quite the same exalted level of 1816's Am Grabe Anselmos, Totenkranz fur ein Kind is still a heartrendingly moving song.

© All Music Guide