Composer

:

Malcolm Arnold

Genre

:

Symphony

Style

:

Symphony

Compose Date

:

1960

First Performance

:

Nov 2, 1960

Average_duration

:

41:33

Movement_count

:

4

Movement ....

Symphony No. 4, Op. 71 is a four-movement symphony composed by British composer Malcolm Arnold. The symphony was composed in 1960 and premiered on October 27, 1960, by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Sir Malcolm Sargent. The first movement, marked Allegro, begins with a lively and energetic theme played by the strings. The theme is then passed on to the woodwinds and brass, creating a sense of excitement and anticipation. The movement features a number of contrasting themes and moods, including a lyrical second theme played by the strings and a more subdued middle section featuring a solo clarinet. The movement ends with a return to the energetic opening theme. The second movement, marked Andantino, is a slow and melancholic piece featuring a haunting melody played by the strings. The movement is characterized by its use of dissonant harmonies and shifting tonalities, creating a sense of unease and tension. The movement ends quietly, with a return to the opening melody played by the solo violin. The third movement, marked Con fuoco, is a fast and frenetic scherzo featuring a driving rhythm and playful melodies. The movement is characterized by its use of syncopation and irregular meters, creating a sense of unpredictability and excitement. The middle section of the movement features a more subdued and lyrical theme played by the woodwinds, before returning to the energetic opening material. The final movement, marked Allegro con brio, is a lively and triumphant piece featuring a bold and heroic theme played by the brass. The movement is characterized by its use of fanfare-like motifs and rhythmic drive, creating a sense of celebration and exuberance. The movement ends with a grand and majestic coda, bringing the symphony to a thrilling conclusion. Overall, Symphony No. 4, Op. 71 is a dynamic and engaging work that showcases Arnold's skill as a composer. The symphony is characterized by its use of contrasting themes and moods, as well as its inventive use of harmony and rhythm. It remains a popular and frequently performed work in the orchestral repertoire.

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