Composer

:

Samuel Barber

Genre

:

Orchestral

Style

:

Fugue

Compose Date

:

1942

Average_duration

:

10:44

Samuel Barber's Second Essay, Op. 17, is a work for orchestra that was composed in 1942. It was premiered on November 16, 1942, by the New York Philharmonic under the direction of Artur Rodzinski. The piece is in one movement and has a duration of approximately 11 minutes. The Second Essay is characterized by its use of contrasting themes and textures. The opening theme is a bold and assertive melody played by the brass section. This theme is then contrasted with a more lyrical and introspective theme played by the strings. Throughout the piece, Barber uses these two themes to create a sense of tension and release. The Second Essay is also notable for its use of orchestration. Barber employs a wide range of instruments, including the harp, celesta, and percussion, to create a rich and varied sound. The piece also features a prominent role for the timpani, which are used to create dramatic accents and transitions. Overall, the Second Essay is a powerful and expressive work that showcases Barber's skill as a composer. Its use of contrasting themes and textures, as well as its inventive orchestration, make it a standout piece in the orchestral repertoire.

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