Composer

:

Alan Hovhaness

Genre

:

Symphony

Style

:

Symphony

Compose Date

:

1968

Average_duration

:

20:31

Movement_count

:

3

Movement ....

Symphony No. 20 Three Journeys to a Holy Mountain, Op. 223 is a composition by American composer Alan Hovhaness. It was composed in 1971 and premiered on May 4, 1972, by the Seattle Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Milton Katims. The symphony consists of three movements, each representing a different journey to a holy mountain. The first movement, "Mount Sinai," is inspired by the biblical story of Moses receiving the Ten Commandments on Mount Sinai. It features a slow, meditative melody played by the strings, accompanied by the sound of bells and chimes. The movement builds to a powerful climax, representing the moment when Moses receives the commandments. The second movement, "Mount Olympus," is inspired by Greek mythology and the home of the gods. It features a lively, rhythmic melody played by the brass and percussion, accompanied by the sound of harps and flutes. The movement is characterized by its energetic and joyful tone, representing the joy and celebration of the gods. The third movement, "Mount Hara," is inspired by the Sufi tradition and the holy mountain of Hara Berezaiti. It features a slow, contemplative melody played by the strings, accompanied by the sound of bells and chimes. The movement is characterized by its peaceful and meditative tone, representing the spiritual journey to the holy mountain. Overall, Symphony No. 20 Three Journeys to a Holy Mountain, Op. 223 is characterized by its use of Eastern and Western musical traditions, as well as its incorporation of religious and mythological themes. The symphony is a testament to Hovhaness's unique style and his ability to create music that is both spiritual and deeply moving.

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