Wer ist ein freier Mann?, Op. 39 — Egbert Juffer

This stirring Lied (German Art Song) for tenor and piano by Dutch-British composer Egbert Juffer sets a text by Gottlieb Konrad Pfeffel (1736–1809), celebrating freedom as inner truth, moral strength, and trust in God and virtue. Written by Egbert Juffer on November1st/2nd/3rd/4th, 2023, it was written as part of a portfolio of compositions submitted at the Victoria College of Music and Drama, London in November 2023, for which Egbert was awarded the Licentiate diploma in Composition (LVCM) in November 2023. It unfolds in three stanzas, the vocal line balancing lyrical phrasing with declamatory emphasis, while the piano provides a dignified, supportive accompaniment. The result is a noble, song-like miniature that combines classical clarity with expressive depth.

Why you’ll love it:

A timeless text – Pfeffel’s verses affirm freedom, integrity, and moral clarity, set with dignity and warmth.

Expressive writing – A lyrical yet declamatory vocal line supported by a harmonically rich piano accompaniment.

Accessible engraving – 2 pages of music notation and 1 page of translation into English presented within a 6-page publication, cleanly set for both tenor and piano.

Intermediate vocal level – Suitable for tenors around UK Grade 5–6, with comfortable range and expressive demands. Performance time is about 3 minutes.

About the composer:

Egbert Juffer (b. 1991) holds multiple diplomas in composition and theory (LLCM, LVCM, AMusLCM) and is also a trained classical singer, having earned the Associate diploma of Trinity College London in classical singing with distinction.

Publication details:

Wer ist ein freier Mann?, Op. 39 — 6 pages in total (2 pages of music notation), vocal score in PDF format. © 2024 EJ Music Publishing Ltd. All rights reserved; purchase licenses you to sing or play from the copy but not to reproduce or distribute it. Catalogue No.: EJMP03043.

Add sheet music of this noble setting by Egbert Juffer to your repertoire and let its balance of lyrical expression and moral force enrich recital programmes or teaching repertoire.