Composer

:

Edward MacDowell

Genre

:

Orchestral

Style

:

Suite

Compose Date

:

1891 - 1892

Average_duration

:

32:15

Movement_count

:

5

Movement ....

Edward MacDowell's 'Suite No. 2 Indian, Op. 48' is a four-movement orchestral suite that was composed in 1896. The suite was premiered on January 21, 1897, by the Boston Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Emil Paur. The first movement, 'Legend', is a slow and solemn piece that features a haunting melody played by the English horn. The movement is characterized by its use of modal harmonies and exotic scales, which give it a distinctly Indian flavor. The second movement, 'Love Song', is a lyrical and romantic piece that features a beautiful melody played by the strings. The movement is characterized by its lush harmonies and delicate orchestration, which create a dreamy and ethereal atmosphere. The third movement, 'In War Time', is a dramatic and intense piece that features a driving rhythm and powerful brass and percussion. The movement is characterized by its use of syncopated rhythms and martial themes, which evoke the chaos and violence of war. The final movement, 'Dirge', is a mournful and melancholy piece that features a somber melody played by the strings. The movement is characterized by its use of chromatic harmonies and dissonant chords, which create a sense of sadness and loss. Overall, 'Suite No. 2 Indian, Op. 48' is a masterful work that showcases MacDowell's skill as a composer and his fascination with exotic musical styles. The suite's use of Indian melodies and harmonies was groundbreaking for its time and helped to establish MacDowell as one of America's leading composers.

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