Composer

:

Henry Cowell

Genre

:

Orchestral

Style

:

Hymn

Compose Date

:

1944

Publication Date

:

1946

First Performance

:

Mar 23, 1944

Average_duration

:

5:48

Movement_count

:

2

Movement ....

Henry Cowell's 'Hymn and Fuguing Tune No. 2, HC 657' is a composition for string orchestra that was composed in 1942. The piece was premiered on March 4, 1943, by the San Francisco Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Pierre Monteux. The composition consists of two movements, the first being a hymn and the second being a fuguing tune. The hymn is a slow and solemn piece that begins with a simple melody played by the violins. The melody is then passed on to the other sections of the orchestra, creating a rich and full sound. The piece gradually builds in intensity, with the addition of more complex harmonies and counterpoint. The hymn ends with a quiet and peaceful resolution. The second movement, the fuguing tune, is a lively and energetic piece that begins with a fast and rhythmic melody played by the violins. The melody is then imitated by the other sections of the orchestra, creating a complex and intricate texture. The piece features a number of different themes and variations, with each section of the orchestra taking turns playing the main melody. The fuguing tune builds to a dramatic climax before ending with a triumphant and joyful conclusion. One of the characteristics of 'Hymn and Fuguing Tune No. 2, HC 657' is Cowell's use of unconventional techniques and harmonies. Cowell was known for his experimental approach to music, and this piece is no exception. The composition features a number of unusual harmonies and chord progressions, as well as unconventional playing techniques such as plucking and bowing the strings in unusual ways. Overall, 'Hymn and Fuguing Tune No. 2, HC 657' is a complex and challenging piece that showcases Cowell's innovative approach to music. The piece has become a staple of the string orchestra repertoire and continues to be performed and studied by musicians and music lovers around the world.

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