Composer

:

Charles Ives

Genre

:

Symphony

Style

:

Symphony

Compose Date

:

1900 - 1902

Publication Date

:

1951

First Performance

:

Feb 22, 1951

Average_duration

:

39:42

Movement_count

:

5

Movement ....

Symphony No. 2, for orchestra, S. 2, is a four-movement symphony composed by Charles Ives. The symphony was composed between 1897 and 1902, and it premiered on April 5, 1951, by the New York Philharmonic under the direction of Leonard Bernstein. The first movement, titled "Prelude: Allegro," is characterized by its use of polytonality and dissonance. The movement begins with a fanfare-like motif in the brass section, which is then developed throughout the movement. The use of multiple keys and tonalities creates a sense of tension and instability, which is resolved in the final section of the movement. The second movement, titled "Allegro," is a scherzo that features a lively and playful melody in the strings. The movement is characterized by its use of syncopation and irregular rhythms, which create a sense of unpredictability and excitement. The movement also features a section in which the orchestra imitates the sound of a marching band. The third movement, titled "Adagio," is a slow and contemplative movement that features a lyrical melody in the strings. The movement is characterized by its use of chromaticism and dissonance, which create a sense of melancholy and introspection. The movement also features a section in which the orchestra imitates the sound of a hymn. The fourth and final movement, titled "Finale: Very slowly - Allegro," is a complex and ambitious movement that features a wide range of musical styles and techniques. The movement begins with a slow and somber section that features a solo trumpet, which is then followed by a lively and energetic section that features a fugue-like structure. The movement also features a section in which the orchestra imitates the sound of a brass band, as well as a section in which the orchestra imitates the sound of a church organ. Overall, Symphony No. 2, for orchestra, S. 2, is a groundbreaking work that showcases Charles Ives' innovative approach to composition. The symphony is characterized by its use of polytonality, dissonance, and unconventional musical techniques, which create a sense of experimentation and unpredictability. Despite its challenging nature, Symphony No. 2 remains a beloved and influential work in the classical music canon.

More....