Composer

:

Malcolm Arnold

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Keyboard

Compose Date

:

1946

Average_duration

:

15:33

Movement_count

:

11

Movement ....

Malcolm Arnold's 'Variations on a Ukrainian Folk Song, Op. 9' is a composition for orchestra that was composed in 1941. The piece was premiered on 17th October 1941 by the London Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Sir Adrian Boult. The composition consists of a theme and eight variations, with a coda at the end. The theme of the piece is a Ukrainian folk song called 'The Streets of Kiev'. The melody is introduced by the strings and is then passed on to the woodwinds and brass. The first variation is a lively and energetic dance, featuring the woodwinds and percussion. The second variation is a slow and melancholic piece, featuring the strings. The third variation is a fast and playful scherzo, featuring the woodwinds and brass. The fourth variation is a slow and lyrical piece, featuring the solo violin. The fifth variation is a fast and virtuosic piece, featuring the solo clarinet. The sixth variation is a slow and mournful piece, featuring the solo cello. The seventh variation is a fast and lively dance, featuring the full orchestra. The eighth variation is a slow and majestic piece, featuring the brass and percussion. The coda of the piece brings back the theme, which is played by the full orchestra in a grand and triumphant manner. The piece ends with a flourish, bringing the composition to a satisfying conclusion. The 'Variations on a Ukrainian Folk Song, Op. 9' is a prime example of Arnold's ability to take a simple folk melody and transform it into a complex and sophisticated orchestral work. The piece showcases Arnold's skill in orchestration, as he uses different instruments and sections of the orchestra to create a variety of moods and textures. The composition is also notable for its use of solo instruments, which add a personal and intimate touch to the piece. Overall, the 'Variations on a Ukrainian Folk Song, Op. 9' is a masterful composition that demonstrates Arnold's talent as a composer and orchestrator. The piece has become a staple of the orchestral repertoire and continues to be performed and enjoyed by audiences around the world.

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