Composer

:

Jean Sibelius

Genre

:

Orchestral

Style

:

March

Compose Date

:

1919

First Performance

:

May 31, 1919

Average_duration

:

4:58

Academic March is a composition by the Finnish composer Jean Sibelius. It was composed in 1899 and premiered on May 31, 1899, at the University of Helsinki's graduation ceremony. The march was written to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the University of Helsinki. The composition is divided into three movements. The first movement is a slow introduction that features a solemn melody played by the brass section. The second movement is the main march, which is characterized by a lively and energetic melody played by the brass and percussion sections. The third movement is a reprise of the first movement, with the solemn melody played once again by the brass section. The Academic March is a grand and majestic composition that reflects the importance of the occasion for which it was written. The use of brass and percussion instruments gives the march a powerful and triumphant sound, while the slow introduction and reprise add a sense of solemnity and reverence. The composition is also notable for its use of counterpoint, with different melodies played simultaneously by different sections of the orchestra. This creates a complex and layered sound that adds to the grandeur of the march. Overall, the Academic March is a masterful composition that showcases Sibelius's skill as a composer. Its grand and majestic sound has made it a popular choice for graduation ceremonies and other formal occasions.

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