Composer

:

Leonard Bernstein

Genre

:

Symphony

Style

:

Symphony

Compose Date

:

1963 - 1977

First Performance

:

1963

Average_duration

:

40:16

Movement_count

:

7

Movement ....

Symphony No. 3 Kaddish is a choral symphony composed by Leonard Bernstein in 1963. It was premiered on January 28, 1964, by the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra and the Oratorio Society of New York at the Mann Auditorium in Tel Aviv, Israel. The symphony is divided into three movements and features a narrator, soprano soloist, mixed chorus, and orchestra. The first movement, marked "Moderato," begins with a somber and mournful theme played by the orchestra. The narrator then enters, reciting a text written by Bernstein himself, which reflects on the nature of God and the human condition. The movement builds to a climax with the entrance of the chorus, who sing a setting of the Kaddish, the Jewish prayer for the dead. The second movement, marked "Allegro molto," is a scherzo that contrasts sharply with the first movement. It is a lively and energetic dance, featuring a solo trumpet and a chorus singing a text that celebrates life and the joys of existence. The third movement, marked "Lento," returns to the somber mood of the first movement. The narrator recites a text that reflects on the horrors of war and the need for peace, while the soprano soloist sings a setting of Psalm 23, "The Lord is my shepherd." The movement builds to a powerful climax with the chorus singing a setting of the Kaddish, this time in a more hopeful and optimistic tone. Symphony No. 3 Kaddish is characterized by its fusion of Jewish and Christian themes, as well as its use of a narrator and chorus to convey a message of hope and peace. It is also notable for its use of a wide range of musical styles, from the mournful and contemplative to the lively and celebratory. Overall, the symphony is a powerful and moving work that reflects Bernstein's deep commitment to social justice and his belief in the power of music to bring people together.

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