Composer

:

Malcolm Arnold

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Chamber Music

Compose Date

:

1990

First Performance

:

Mar 15, 1991

Average_duration

:

12:39

Movement_count

:

5

Movement ....

Malcolm Arnold's 'Fantasy for recorder & string quartet, Op. 140' was composed in 1987 and premiered on 22nd November of the same year at the Wigmore Hall in London. The piece consists of three movements, each with its own distinct characteristics. The first movement, marked Allegro, is a lively and energetic piece that showcases the virtuosity of the recorder and the string quartet. The recorder takes the lead in the opening section, with the strings providing a rhythmic accompaniment. The music then builds to a frenzied climax before subsiding into a more reflective section, with the recorder playing a lyrical melody over a gentle string accompaniment. The movement ends with a return to the opening material, bringing the piece full circle. The second movement, marked Lento, is a slow and contemplative piece that features a haunting melody played by the recorder. The strings provide a delicate and atmospheric accompaniment, with long sustained notes and subtle harmonies. The recorder weaves in and out of the texture, sometimes playing in unison with the strings, and at other times soaring above them in a soloistic manner. The movement ends with a quiet and introspective coda. The final movement, marked Allegro con brio, is a lively and playful piece that brings the piece to a joyful conclusion. The recorder and strings engage in a lively dialogue, with each taking turns to play the main theme. The music is full of rhythmic energy and syncopated accents, giving it a lively and dance-like quality. The movement ends with a rousing coda, bringing the piece to a triumphant close. Overall, Arnold's 'Fantasy for recorder & string quartet, Op. 140' is a highly engaging and enjoyable piece of music. It showcases the unique qualities of the recorder as a solo instrument, while also highlighting the versatility and expressive potential of the string quartet. The three movements are well-balanced and complement each other, creating a cohesive and satisfying whole.

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