Composer

:

William Walton

Genre

:

Symphony

Style

:

Symphony

Compose Date

:

1957 - 1960

Average_duration

:

28:16

Movement_count

:

3

Movement ....

Symphony No. 2 is a four-movement orchestral work composed by William Walton. The symphony was composed between 1956 and 1959 and premiered on October 16, 1959, in Liverpool, England, conducted by the composer himself. The first movement, Allegro molto, begins with a lively and energetic theme played by the strings. The theme is then developed and expanded upon by the woodwinds and brass. The movement is characterized by its rhythmic drive and use of syncopation. The second movement, Lento assai, is a slow and somber adagio. The movement is marked by its use of rich harmonies and expressive melodies. The movement builds to a powerful climax before fading away into a quiet and introspective coda. The third movement, Presto con malizia, is a scherzo characterized by its playful and mischievous character. The movement is marked by its use of syncopated rhythms and sudden shifts in tempo and dynamics. The final movement, Maestoso - Allegro, is a grand and triumphant finale. The movement begins with a majestic fanfare played by the brass before transitioning into a lively and energetic allegro. The movement is marked by its use of complex counterpoint and virtuosic orchestration. Overall, Symphony No. 2 is a powerful and dynamic work that showcases Walton's mastery of orchestration and his ability to create music that is both expressive and exciting. The symphony is considered one of Walton's greatest works and is a staple of the orchestral repertoire.

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