Composer

:

Roy Harris

Genre

:

Concerto

Style

:

Concerto

Compose Date

:

1946

Average_duration

:

24:21

Movement_count

:

3

Movement ....

The Concerto for 2 pianos & orchestra is a composition by American composer Roy Harris. It was composed in 1951 and premiered on March 6, 1952, by the Boston Symphony Orchestra, with the composer himself conducting and the pianists Beveridge Webster and Carl Friedberg as soloists. The concerto is divided into three movements. The first movement, marked Allegro, is characterized by its energetic and rhythmic drive. The two pianos engage in a lively dialogue, often playing in unison or in close harmony. The orchestra provides a colorful and dynamic backdrop, with brass and percussion adding to the excitement. The second movement, marked Andante, is more introspective and lyrical. The pianos play a gentle and expressive melody, accompanied by strings and woodwinds. The mood is nostalgic and contemplative, with occasional bursts of passion and intensity. The third movement, marked Allegro con fuoco, is a lively and virtuosic finale. The pianos engage in a playful and intricate dialogue, often trading rapid-fire runs and arpeggios. The orchestra provides a lively and rhythmic accompaniment, with brass and percussion adding to the excitement. The movement builds to a thrilling climax, with the pianos and orchestra engaging in a frenzied and exhilarating coda. Overall, the Concerto for 2 pianos & orchestra is a dynamic and engaging work, showcasing Harris's skillful orchestration and his ability to create memorable melodies and rhythms. The work has become a staple of the piano concerto repertoire and is widely regarded as one of Harris's most successful compositions.

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