Composer

:

William Walton

Genre

:

Orchestral

Style

:

Orchestral

Compose Date

:

1987

Average_duration

:

10:32

Movement_count

:

4

Movement ....

A Shavian Sequence is a composition by William Walton, which was premiered on 12th July 1951 at the Cheltenham Festival. The piece is a collection of five movements, each of which is based on a different play by George Bernard Shaw. The movements are titled "The Revolutionist", "The Philanderer", "The Philanthropist", "The Widowers' Houses", and "The Simpleton". The first movement, "The Revolutionist", is based on Shaw's play "The Devil's Disciple". It is a lively and energetic piece, with a strong sense of rhythm and a driving melody. The second movement, "The Philanderer", is based on Shaw's play of the same name. It is a more subdued and introspective piece, with a haunting melody and a sense of melancholy. The third movement, "The Philanthropist", is based on Shaw's play "Major Barbara". It is a bright and optimistic piece, with a sense of hope and possibility. The fourth movement, "The Widowers' Houses", is based on Shaw's play of the same name. It is a dark and brooding piece, with a sense of foreboding and unease. The final movement, "The Simpleton", is based on Shaw's play "Androcles and the Lion". It is a playful and whimsical piece, with a sense of humor and lightness. Throughout the piece, Walton's use of orchestration is masterful, with each movement featuring a different combination of instruments and textures. Overall, A Shavian Sequence is a complex and nuanced work, which showcases Walton's skill as a composer and his deep understanding of Shaw's plays. It is a testament to the enduring power of Shaw's writing, and a fitting tribute to one of the greatest playwrights of the 20th century.

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