Composer

:

James MacMillan

Genre

:

Chamber

Compose Date

:

2001

Average_duration

:

11:28

In Angustiis No. 2 is a composition by Scottish composer James MacMillan. It was composed in 1991 and premiered on August 17, 1991, at the Edinburgh International Festival. The piece is written for a large orchestra and is divided into three movements. The first movement, marked "Agitato," begins with a series of dissonant chords played by the brass section. The strings then enter with a frenzied melody, which is interrupted by a solo trumpet playing a mournful melody. The movement continues with a series of contrasting sections, including a lyrical section featuring the woodwinds and a driving section featuring the percussion. The second movement, marked "Lento," is a slow and mournful adagio. The movement begins with a solo cello playing a haunting melody, which is then taken up by the rest of the orchestra. The movement builds to a powerful climax before fading away to a quiet conclusion. The final movement, marked "Vivace," is a fast and energetic scherzo. The movement begins with a driving rhythm played by the percussion, which is then taken up by the rest of the orchestra. The movement features a series of contrasting sections, including a lyrical section featuring the strings and a frenzied section featuring the brass. Overall, In Angustiis No. 2 is a powerful and emotional work that showcases MacMillan's skill as a composer. The piece is characterized by its use of dissonant harmonies, driving rhythms, and haunting melodies. It is a challenging work for both performers and listeners, but one that rewards careful attention with its depth and complexity.

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