Composer

:

George Enescu

Genre

:

Orchestral

Style

:

Rhapsody

Compose Date

:

Oct 26, 1901

Publication Date

:

1909

First Performance

:

Feb 23, 1903

Average_duration

:

12:00

George Enescu's "Roumanian Rhapsody No. 2 in D major, Op. 11/2" is a vibrant and energetic orchestral work that captures the essence of Romanian folk music. The piece was composed in 1901 and premiered in Bucharest the same year. The rhapsody is divided into two main movements, each with its own distinct character. The first movement is marked "Andante con moto," and begins with a hauntingly beautiful melody played by the solo clarinet. This melody is then taken up by the rest of the orchestra, building in intensity until it reaches a frenzied climax. The second movement is marked "Allegro vivace," and is a lively and energetic dance that features a number of traditional Romanian folk melodies. One of the most striking characteristics of Enescu's Roumanian Rhapsody No. 2 is its use of traditional Romanian folk music. Enescu was deeply influenced by the music of his homeland, and he incorporated a number of traditional melodies and rhythms into the piece. These include the "hora," a lively circle dance, and the "doina," a slow and mournful song. Another notable characteristic of the rhapsody is its use of orchestration. Enescu was a skilled orchestrator, and he used the full range of the orchestra to create a rich and colorful sound. The piece features a number of solos for various instruments, including the clarinet, violin, and cimbalom (a traditional Romanian instrument similar to a hammered dulcimer). Overall, Enescu's Roumanian Rhapsody No. 2 is a vibrant and exciting work that showcases the beauty and energy of Romanian folk music. Its use of traditional melodies and rhythms, combined with Enescu's skillful orchestration, make it a true masterpiece of the orchestral repertoire.

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