Composer

:

Malcolm Arnold

Genre

:

Concerto

Style

:

Concerto

Compose Date

:

1958

First Performance

:

Jun 25, 1959

Average_duration

:

22:29

Movement_count

:

3

Movement ....

Malcolm Arnold's 'Guitar Concerto, Op. 67' was composed in 1959 and premiered on November 17, 1959, at the Cheltenham Festival. The concerto is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character and mood. The first movement, marked Allegro, is lively and energetic, with a driving rhythm and a sense of urgency. The guitar enters with a virtuosic solo passage, which is then taken up by the orchestra. The movement features a number of contrasting themes, including a lyrical melody played by the guitar and a more angular, dissonant theme played by the orchestra. The movement ends with a return to the opening material, building to a dramatic climax. The second movement, marked Lento, is a slow and introspective interlude. The guitar plays a haunting melody over a gentle accompaniment from the orchestra. The movement has a dreamlike quality, with a sense of yearning and nostalgia. The guitar's solo passages are particularly expressive, with a delicate touch and a sense of intimacy. The final movement, marked Con brio, is a lively and playful romp. The guitar and orchestra engage in a lively dialogue, with the guitar playing a series of virtuosic runs and the orchestra responding with bursts of energy. The movement features a number of catchy themes, including a playful melody played by the guitar and a more driving, rhythmic theme played by the orchestra. The movement builds to a frenzied conclusion, with the guitar and orchestra racing to the finish line. Overall, Arnold's 'Guitar Concerto, Op. 67' is a virtuosic and engaging work, showcasing the guitar's versatility and expressive range. The concerto is notable for its inventive use of orchestration, with Arnold creating a rich and varied sound world that complements the guitar's unique timbre. The work has become a staple of the guitar repertoire, beloved by performers and audiences alike.

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