Composer

:

Edmund Rubbra

Genre

:

Concerto

Style

:

Concerto

Compose Date

:

1934

Average_duration

:

31:50

Edmund Rubbra's Sinfonia concertante, Op.38, was composed in 1946 and premiered on May 22, 1947, at the Royal Albert Hall in London. The work is scored for solo violin, solo viola, and orchestra, and is divided into three movements. The first movement, marked Allegro moderato, begins with a lively and rhythmic theme introduced by the orchestra. The solo violin and viola then enter, engaging in a dialogue with each other and with the orchestra. The movement is characterized by its energetic and virtuosic solo writing, as well as its use of complex harmonies and shifting tonal centers. The second movement, marked Adagio, is a lyrical and introspective meditation for the solo instruments. The orchestra provides a delicate and atmospheric accompaniment, with shimmering strings and gentle woodwind solos. The solo violin and viola engage in a duet, weaving together intricate melodies and harmonies. The movement is notable for its expressive and emotional depth, as well as its use of chromaticism and dissonance. The final movement, marked Allegro con fuoco, is a lively and exuberant dance. The orchestra introduces a lively and rhythmic theme, which is then taken up by the solo instruments. The movement is characterized by its playful and virtuosic solo writing, as well as its use of syncopation and irregular rhythms. The work ends with a triumphant coda, bringing the piece to a thrilling conclusion. Overall, Rubbra's Sinfonia concertante is a masterful showcase for the solo violin and viola, as well as a testament to the composer's skill in orchestration and harmonic language. The work is notable for its complex and sophisticated musical language, as well as its emotional depth and expressive power.

More....