Composer

:

William Schuman

Genre

:

Orchestral

Style

:

Variations

Compose Date

:

1963

First Performance

:

May 20, 1964

Average_duration

:

7:26

William Schuman's "Variations on America (after Charles Ives)" is a composition for orchestra that was composed in 1959. The piece was premiered on January 28, 1960, by the New York Philharmonic under the direction of Leonard Bernstein. The work is based on the patriotic tune "America" and is a tribute to the American composer Charles Ives. The piece is divided into five movements, each of which is a variation on the original tune. The first movement is a straightforward presentation of the melody, with the orchestra playing in unison. The second movement is a fugue, with the melody presented in a contrapuntal manner. The third movement is a scherzo, with the melody played in a fast and playful manner. The fourth movement is a slow and lyrical variation, with the melody played by the strings. The final movement is a rousing finale, with the melody played in a grand and triumphant manner. Schuman's "Variations on America" is characterized by its use of orchestration and its incorporation of American musical traditions. The piece features a wide range of orchestral colors, with each variation showcasing different sections of the orchestra. The piece also incorporates elements of American folk music, jazz, and popular music, reflecting the diverse musical traditions of the United States. Overall, Schuman's "Variations on America" is a lively and engaging tribute to the American composer Charles Ives and the patriotic tune "America." The piece showcases Schuman's skill as an orchestrator and his ability to incorporate diverse musical traditions into his compositions.

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