Composer

:

Lou Harrison

Genre

:

Symphony

Style

:

Symphony

Compose Date

:

1990 - 1995

First Performance

:

Nov 2, 1990

Average_duration

:

42:11

Movement_count

:

4

Movement ....

Symphony No. 4 Last Symphony is a composition by American composer Lou Harrison. It was composed in 1990 and premiered on May 4, 1991, by the Cabrillo Festival Orchestra conducted by Dennis Russell Davies. The symphony is divided into four movements and has a total duration of approximately 30 minutes. The first movement, marked "Moderato," begins with a slow and somber introduction featuring the strings and woodwinds. The main theme is then introduced by the brass section, which is characterized by its rhythmic drive and syncopated accents. The movement features a number of contrasting sections, including a lyrical and expressive middle section and a lively and energetic coda. The second movement, marked "Adagio," is a slow and introspective piece that features a haunting melody played by the strings. The movement is characterized by its use of dissonant harmonies and unconventional tonalities, which create a sense of tension and unease. The third movement, marked "Allegro," is a lively and energetic piece that features a number of rhythmic and melodic motifs that are developed throughout the movement. The movement is characterized by its use of syncopated rhythms and driving percussion, which give it a sense of urgency and momentum. The final movement, marked "Largo," is a slow and contemplative piece that features a number of solo passages for the various instruments of the orchestra. The movement is characterized by its use of lush harmonies and expressive melodies, which create a sense of nostalgia and longing. Overall, Symphony No. 4 Last Symphony is a powerful and emotional work that showcases Harrison's unique blend of Western classical music and traditional Asian music. The symphony is characterized by its use of unconventional tonalities, rhythmic complexity, and expressive melodies, which create a sense of depth and complexity that is both challenging and rewarding for the listener.

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