Composer

:

Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov

Genre

:

Symphony

Style

:

Symphony

Compose Date

:

1886

Publication Date

:

1888

Average_duration

:

34:21

Movement_count

:

4

Movement ....

Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov's Symphony No. 3 in C major, Op. 32, also known as the Symphony on Russian Themes, was composed in 1874 and premiered in St. Petersburg on November 23 of the same year. The symphony is divided into four movements and has a total running time of approximately 35 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 throughout the movement, with various sections of the orchestra taking turns playing it. The movement also features a slower, more lyrical section in the middle, before returning to the main theme and building to a triumphant conclusion. The second movement, marked Scherzo, is a lively and playful dance in 3/4 time. The main theme is introduced by the woodwinds and then passed around the orchestra, with each section adding its own unique flavor to the melody. The middle section of the movement features a slower, more contemplative theme, before returning to the lively dance and ending with a flourish. The third movement, marked Andante, is a beautiful and melancholic piece that showcases Rimsky-Korsakov's skill at writing for the strings. The movement begins with a haunting melody played by the cellos and basses, which is then taken up by the violins and developed further. The middle section of the movement features a more upbeat theme, before returning to the melancholic melody and ending with a gentle fade. The final movement, marked Allegro con spirito, is a lively and energetic piece that brings the symphony to a rousing conclusion. The movement begins with a fanfare-like theme played by the brass, which is then taken up by the strings and developed further. The middle section of the movement features a slower, more lyrical theme, before returning to the main theme and building to a triumphant finale. Overall, Rimsky-Korsakov's Symphony No. 3 is a masterful work that showcases his skill at writing for the orchestra. The symphony is characterized by its lively and energetic themes, beautiful melodies, and skillful orchestration, and remains a beloved work in the classical repertoire.

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