Composer

:

Frank Martin

Genre

:

Symphony

Style

:

Symphony

Compose Date

:

1937

Average_duration

:

31:53

Movement_count

:

4

Movement ....

Symphonie is a composition by Swiss composer Frank Martin. It was composed between 1940 and 1944, during the Second World War. The symphony was premiered on 26 October 1950 in Zurich, Switzerland, conducted by Paul Sacher. The symphony consists of four movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement, marked Allegro moderato, is characterized by its rhythmic drive and energy. The second movement, marked Adagio, is a slow and contemplative piece, featuring a hauntingly beautiful melody played by the strings. The third movement, marked Scherzo, is a lively and playful piece, featuring intricate rhythms and playful melodies. The final movement, marked Allegro, is a triumphant and energetic piece, featuring a soaring melody played by the brass. One of the most striking characteristics of Symphonie is its use of polytonality. Martin was known for his use of this technique, which involves the simultaneous use of multiple keys or tonalities. In Symphonie, Martin uses polytonality to create a sense of tension and dissonance, which is then resolved in the final movement. Another notable characteristic of Symphonie is its use of orchestration. Martin was a master of orchestration, and in Symphonie he uses the full range of the orchestra to create a rich and varied sound. The symphony features lush string writing, intricate woodwind and brass parts, and a wide range of percussion instruments. Overall, Symphonie is a powerful and emotionally charged work, reflecting the turmoil of the Second World War and Martin's own personal struggles during that time. It is a testament to Martin's skill as a composer and his ability to create music that is both technically complex and deeply moving.

More....