Composer

:

Edward Elgar

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Character Piece

Compose Date

:

1905

Average_duration

:

4:55

"In Smyrna" is a composition by the English composer Edward Elgar. It was composed in 1905 and premiered on 22 February 1906 at the Aeolian Hall in London. The piece is a part of a larger work called "In the South (Alassio)" which was inspired by Elgar's trip to Italy in 1903. "In Smyrna" is the second movement of "In the South (Alassio)" and is a musical depiction of Elgar's visit to the city of Smyrna (now known as Izmir) in Turkey. The movement begins with a slow and mysterious introduction that sets the scene for the bustling city. The main theme is then introduced, which is a lively and energetic dance that captures the vibrant atmosphere of Smyrna. The piece is characterized by its use of exotic scales and rhythms, which Elgar uses to evoke the sounds and rhythms of the Middle East. The use of percussion instruments such as the tambourine and triangle also adds to the exotic flavor of the piece. The middle section of the movement features a slower and more contemplative theme, which Elgar uses to reflect on the history and culture of Smyrna. This section is characterized by its use of lush harmonies and soaring melodies. The movement then returns to the main theme, which is developed further before the piece comes to a rousing conclusion. "In Smyrna" is a colorful and evocative piece that showcases Elgar's skill as a composer and his ability to capture the essence of a place through music.

More....