Composer

:

Arnold Bax

Genre

:

Orchestral

Style

:

Orchestral

Compose Date

:

1944

Average_duration

:

12:00

Arnold Bax's 'A Legend' is a symphonic poem that was composed in 1929. It was premiered on October 17, 1929, by the BBC Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Adrian Boult. The piece is divided into three movements and has a total duration of approximately 20 minutes. The first movement, marked 'Allegro moderato,' begins with a mysterious and haunting melody played by the strings. The music gradually builds in intensity, with the brass and percussion adding to the tension. The middle section of the movement features a lyrical theme played by the woodwinds, which is then taken up by the strings. The movement ends with a return to the opening theme, played softly by the strings. The second movement, marked 'Lento,' is a slow and melancholic piece that features a solo violin playing a mournful melody. The music is characterized by its use of rich harmonies and lush orchestration. The middle section of the movement features a solo cello playing a lyrical theme, which is then taken up by the rest of the orchestra. The movement ends with a return to the solo violin, playing a variation of the opening melody. The final movement, marked 'Allegro con fuoco,' is a fast and energetic piece that features a lively dance rhythm. The music is characterized by its use of syncopated rhythms and driving percussion. The middle section of the movement features a lyrical theme played by the woodwinds, which is then taken up by the strings. The movement ends with a return to the opening dance rhythm, played with even greater intensity. Overall, 'A Legend' is a powerful and evocative piece of music that showcases Bax's skill as a composer. The piece is characterized by its use of rich harmonies, lush orchestration, and dramatic contrasts in mood and tempo. It is a testament to Bax's ability to create music that is both emotionally powerful and intellectually stimulating.

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