Composer

:

Don Gillis

Genre

:

Symphony

Style

:

Symphony

Compose Date

:

1946

Average_duration

:

14:28

Movement_count

:

4

Movement ....

Symphony No. 5 1/2 A Symphony for Fun is a composition by American composer Don Gillis. It was composed in 1952 and premiered on February 22, 1953, by the NBC Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Arturo Toscanini. The symphony is a lighthearted and humorous work, consisting of three movements. The first movement, titled "The Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra," is a playful introduction to the various instruments of the orchestra. It features a narrator who describes each instrument and its sound, while the orchestra plays short musical examples. The movement is reminiscent of Benjamin Britten's "The Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra," but with a more humorous tone. The second movement, titled "The Romance," is a slow and lyrical piece that features the strings and woodwinds. It is a contrast to the playful first movement and provides a moment of reflection and beauty. The third movement, titled "The Square Dance," is a lively and energetic piece that features the brass and percussion. It is a fun and upbeat conclusion to the symphony, with a nod to American folk music. Overall, Symphony No. 5 1/2 A Symphony for Fun is a light and entertaining work that showcases the various instruments of the orchestra. It is a departure from Gillis's more serious compositions and demonstrates his versatility as a composer.

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