Composer

:

Arnold Bax

Genre

:

Orchestral

Style

:

Tone Poem

Average_duration

:

7:35

'On the Sea-Shore' is a composition for orchestra by Arnold Bax, a British composer of the early 20th century. It was composed in 1911 and premiered in the same year at a concert of the Royal Philharmonic Society in London. The piece is divided into three movements and has a total duration of approximately 20 minutes. The first movement, marked 'Allegro moderato', begins with a lively and energetic theme played by the strings. This theme is then developed and expanded upon by the woodwinds and brass, creating a sense of excitement and anticipation. The middle section of the movement is more subdued, with a lyrical melody played by the strings and a solo oboe. The movement ends with a return to the opening theme, played with even greater intensity and vigor. The second movement, marked 'Lento', is a slow and contemplative piece that features a haunting melody played by the solo violin. This melody is then taken up by the rest of the orchestra, creating a sense of melancholy and introspection. The middle section of the movement is more agitated, with a faster tempo and more dissonant harmonies. However, the opening melody returns at the end of the movement, bringing a sense of resolution and closure. The final movement, marked 'Allegro con fuoco', is a lively and exuberant piece that features a driving rhythm and a sense of forward momentum. The opening theme is played by the brass and then taken up by the rest of the orchestra, creating a sense of excitement and energy. The middle section of the movement is more lyrical, with a beautiful melody played by the strings. However, the opening theme returns at the end of the movement, bringing the piece to a thrilling and triumphant conclusion. Overall, 'On the Sea-Shore' is a dynamic and expressive work that showcases Bax's skill as a composer. The piece is characterized by its lush harmonies, colorful orchestration, and evocative melodies, which capture the beauty and power of the sea.

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