Composer

:

Alan Hovhaness

Genre

:

Orchestral

Style

:

Alleluia

Compose Date

:

1941

Average_duration

:

10:30

Movement_count

:

2

Movement ....

'Alleluia and Fugue for string orchestra, Op. 40b' is a composition by the American composer Alan Hovhaness. It was composed in 1941 and premiered on March 22, 1942, by the Boston Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Serge Koussevitzky. The piece is divided into two movements: the first is an Alleluia, and the second is a Fugue. The Alleluia is a slow and meditative piece, featuring a simple and repetitive melody that is passed between the different sections of the orchestra. The Fugue, on the other hand, is a fast and lively piece that showcases Hovhaness's skill in counterpoint. The Fugue is based on a theme that is introduced by the violins and is then developed and elaborated upon by the other sections of the orchestra. One of the characteristics of 'Alleluia and Fugue for string orchestra, Op. 40b' is its use of modal harmonies and melodies. Hovhaness was heavily influenced by the music of the Middle East and Asia, and this is reflected in his use of non-traditional scales and modes. Another characteristic of the piece is its use of simple and repetitive melodies, which create a sense of meditative calm in the Alleluia and a sense of energy and momentum in the Fugue. Overall, 'Alleluia and Fugue for string orchestra, Op. 40b' is a beautiful and engaging piece of music that showcases Hovhaness's unique style and skill as a composer. Its use of modal harmonies and simple melodies make it a memorable and accessible work, while its intricate counterpoint and lively rhythms make it a challenging and rewarding piece for performers.

More....