Composer

:

Lou Harrison

Genre

:

Orchestral

Style

:

Suite

Compose Date

:

1936 - 1960

First Performance

:

Oct 18, 1961

Average_duration

:

34:35

Movement_count

:

9

Movement ....

Lou Harrison's 'Suite for Symphonic Strings' is a four-movement work that was composed in 1949. The piece was premiered on May 6, 1950, by the San Francisco Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Pierre Monteux. The first movement, titled 'Estampie,' is a lively and rhythmic dance that is based on a medieval dance form. The movement features a driving rhythm and a lively melody that is passed between the different sections of the orchestra. The second movement, 'Elegy,' is a slow and mournful piece that features a haunting melody played by the violins. The movement is characterized by its use of dissonant harmonies and its somber mood. The third movement, 'Aria,' is a lyrical and expressive piece that features a beautiful melody played by the violins. The movement is characterized by its use of lush harmonies and its soaring melodies. The final movement, 'Bouree,' is a lively and energetic dance that is based on a Baroque dance form. The movement features a driving rhythm and a lively melody that is passed between the different sections of the orchestra. Overall, Harrison's 'Suite for Symphonic Strings' is characterized by its use of traditional dance forms and its lush harmonies. The piece is a beautiful example of Harrison's unique style, which blends elements of Western classical music with non-Western musical traditions. The 'Suite for Symphonic Strings' remains a popular work in the orchestral repertoire and is frequently performed by orchestras around the world.

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