Composer

:

Igor Stravinsky

Genre

:

Orchestral

Style

:

Scherzo

Compose Date

:

1908

First Performance

:

Feb 6, 1909

Average_duration

:

12:24

Igor Stravinsky's Scherzo fantastique, Op. 3, is a composition for orchestra that was composed in 1907. It premiered on December 3, 1908, in St. Petersburg, Russia, conducted by Felix Blumenfeld. The piece is divided into three movements and has a total duration of approximately 12 minutes. The first movement of Scherzo fantastique is marked Allegro vivo and is characterized by its energetic and playful nature. The movement begins with a lively and rhythmic theme played by the strings, which is then taken up by the woodwinds and brass. The music is full of sudden shifts in dynamics and tempo, creating a sense of excitement and unpredictability. The movement ends with a brief coda that brings the music to a sudden and unexpected halt. The second movement, marked Andante, is a more subdued and lyrical section of the piece. It begins with a haunting melody played by the oboe, which is then taken up by the strings. The music gradually builds in intensity, with the brass and percussion adding to the texture. The movement ends with a quiet and introspective coda. The final movement, marked Allegro, is a return to the playful and energetic mood of the first movement. It begins with a lively and syncopated theme played by the woodwinds, which is then taken up by the strings and brass. The music is full of sudden shifts in tempo and dynamics, creating a sense of excitement and unpredictability. The movement ends with a frenzied coda that brings the piece to a thrilling conclusion. Overall, Scherzo fantastique is a highly virtuosic and colorful work that showcases Stravinsky's early style. The piece is characterized by its rhythmic vitality, sudden shifts in tempo and dynamics, and playful use of orchestral color. It is a testament to Stravinsky's skill as a composer and his ability to create music that is both technically challenging and emotionally engaging.

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