Composer

:

Howard Hanson

Genre

:

Symphony

Style

:

Symphony

Compose Date

:

1954

Average_duration

:

15:07

Symphony No. 5, Op. 43 Sinfonia Sacra is a composition by American composer Howard Hanson. It was composed in 1954 and premiered on January 24, 1955, by the Boston Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Charles Munch. The symphony is divided into three movements. The first movement, "Dies Natalis," is marked by a sense of celebration and joy. The second movement, "Temple of the Mind," is more introspective and contemplative, with a sense of searching and questioning. The final movement, "In Praise of Music," is a triumphant and exuberant celebration of the power of music. One of the most notable characteristics of Symphony No. 5 is its use of a large orchestra, including a full complement of percussion instruments. Hanson was known for his skillful orchestration, and this symphony is no exception. The use of percussion, in particular, adds a sense of drama and excitement to the music. Another characteristic of the symphony is its use of tonality. Hanson was a proponent of tonal music at a time when many composers were experimenting with atonality and other modernist techniques. Symphony No. 5 is firmly rooted in tonality, with clear melodic lines and harmonies that are easy to follow. Overall, Symphony No. 5, Op. 43 Sinfonia Sacra is a powerful and uplifting work that showcases Hanson's skill as a composer and orchestrator. Its use of tonality and percussion make it accessible to a wide audience, while its sense of celebration and joy make it a fitting tribute to the power of music.

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