Composer

:

E.J. Moeran

Genre

:

Orchestral

Style

:

Rhapsody

Compose Date

:

1924

Average_duration

:

13:04

Rhapsody for Orchestra No. 2 in E major is a composition by English composer E.J. Moeran. It was composed in 1944 and premiered on 22 February 1945, at the Royal Albert Hall in London, conducted by Sir Adrian Boult. The piece is divided into three movements and has a total duration of approximately 20 minutes. The first movement, marked Allegro, begins with a lively and energetic theme played by the strings. This theme is then developed and expanded upon by the woodwinds and brass, creating a sense of excitement and anticipation. The middle section of the movement features a more subdued and lyrical theme, which is then contrasted with a return to the opening theme. The movement ends with a triumphant restatement of the main theme. The second movement, marked Lento, is a slow and melancholic piece that features a hauntingly beautiful melody played by the English horn. This melody is then taken up by the strings and developed further, creating a sense of longing and nostalgia. The middle section of the movement features a more dissonant and unsettling theme, which is then resolved with a return to the opening melody. The movement ends with a quiet and introspective coda. The final movement, marked Allegro vivace, is a lively and energetic piece that features a fast-paced and rhythmic theme played by the strings. This theme is then developed and expanded upon by the woodwinds and brass, creating a sense of excitement and joy. The middle section of the movement features a more lyrical and expressive theme, which is then contrasted with a return to the opening theme. The movement ends with a triumphant restatement of the main theme, bringing the piece to a thrilling conclusion. Overall, Rhapsody for Orchestra No. 2 in E major is a vibrant and dynamic work that showcases Moeran's skill as a composer. The piece is characterized by its use of folk melodies and rhythms, as well as its lush harmonies and colorful orchestration. It is a testament to Moeran's ability to create music that is both accessible and sophisticated, and remains a beloved work in the orchestral repertoire.

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