Composer

:

Antonin Dvorák

Genre

:

Symphony

Style

:

Symphony

Compose Date

:

Jan 1, 1874 - Mar 26, 1874

Publication Date

:

1912

First Performance

:

Apr 6, 1982

Average_duration

:

40:33

Movement_count

:

4

Movement ....

Antonin Dvorák's Symphony No. 4 in D minor, B. 41, Op. 13, was composed in 1874 and premiered on March 4, 1875, in Prague. The symphony is divided into four movements and has a total running time of approximately 40 minutes. The first movement, marked Allegro, begins with a dramatic and forceful introduction that sets the tone for the entire symphony. The main theme is introduced by the strings and is characterized by its rhythmic drive and use of syncopation. The development section explores various themes and motifs from the opening material, building to a powerful climax before returning to the main theme in the recapitulation. The second movement, marked Andante sostenuto, is a lyrical and introspective piece that features a beautiful melody played by the strings. The movement is notable for its use of chromaticism and subtle shifts in tonality, which create a sense of tension and release. The third movement, marked Scherzo: Allegro feroce, is a lively and energetic piece that features a playful and rhythmic main theme. The trio section provides a contrast to the scherzo with its more lyrical and melodic material, before returning to the scherzo for a final statement of the main theme. The final movement, marked Allegro con brio, is a triumphant and exuberant piece that brings the symphony to a thrilling conclusion. The movement features a driving and energetic main theme that is developed throughout the movement, building to a powerful climax before returning to the main theme for a final statement. Overall, Dvorák's Symphony No. 4 is characterized by its dramatic and forceful opening, lyrical and introspective second movement, playful and rhythmic scherzo, and triumphant and exuberant finale. The symphony showcases Dvorák's skill as a composer and his ability to create music that is both emotionally powerful and technically impressive.

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