Composer

:

Roy Harris

Genre

:

Symphony

Style

:

Symphony

Compose Date

:

1940

Average_duration

:

38:18

Movement_count

:

7

Movement ....

Symphony No. 4 Folk Song is a composition by American composer Roy Harris. It was composed in 1940 and premiered on January 3, 1941, by the Boston Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Serge Koussevitzky. The symphony is divided into four movements and has a total duration of approximately 25 minutes. The first movement, marked "Moderato," begins with a solemn and majestic theme played by the brass section. This theme is then developed and expanded upon by the rest of the orchestra, creating a sense of grandeur and power. The second theme, played by the strings, is more lyrical and introspective, providing a contrast to the first theme. The movement ends with a return to the opening theme, played with even greater intensity and force. The second movement, marked "Andante," is a slow and melancholic piece that features a solo violin playing a haunting melody. This melody is then taken up by the rest of the orchestra, creating a sense of sadness and longing. The movement ends with a return to the solo violin, which fades away into silence. The third movement, marked "Allegro," is a lively and energetic piece that features a folk-like melody played by the woodwinds. This melody is then developed and expanded upon by the rest of the orchestra, creating a sense of joy and celebration. The movement ends with a return to the opening theme, played with even greater energy and enthusiasm. The fourth and final movement, marked "Moderato," is a solemn and majestic piece that features a chorale-like theme played by the brass section. This theme is then developed and expanded upon by the rest of the orchestra, creating a sense of reverence and awe. The movement ends with a return to the opening theme, played with even greater grandeur and power. Overall, Symphony No. 4 Folk Song is a powerful and emotional work that showcases Harris's skill as a composer. The use of folk-like melodies and themes gives the symphony a sense of Americana, while the grandeur and intensity of the music make it a truly epic work.

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