Composer

:

Burrill Phillips

Genre

:

Orchestral

Style

:

Orchestral

Compose Date

:

1933

Average_duration

:

16:08

Movement_count

:

3

Movement ....

Burrill Phillips' "Selections from McGuffey's Reader for Orchestra" is a musical composition that was premiered in 1940. The piece is divided into four movements, each of which is based on a different reading from the McGuffey's Reader, a popular textbook used in American schools during the 19th century. The first movement, titled "The Spelling Lesson," is a lively and playful piece that captures the energy and excitement of a classroom full of children learning to spell. The music is characterized by its use of staccato rhythms and bright, cheerful melodies. The second movement, "The Village Blacksmith," is a more somber and reflective piece that tells the story of a hardworking blacksmith and his family. The music is characterized by its use of slow, mournful melodies and rich, expressive harmonies. The third movement, "The Barefoot Boy," is a lively and energetic piece that captures the spirit of a young boy running and playing in the countryside. The music is characterized by its use of fast, playful rhythms and bright, cheerful melodies. The final movement, "The American Flag," is a patriotic piece that celebrates the American flag and all that it represents. The music is characterized by its use of bold, triumphant melodies and powerful, stirring harmonies. Overall, "Selections from McGuffey's Reader for Orchestra" is a charming and engaging piece of music that captures the spirit of American education and culture during the 19th century. Its use of familiar texts and themes makes it accessible and enjoyable for audiences of all ages and backgrounds.

More....