Composer

:

Daniel Jones

Genre

:

Keyboard

Compose Date

:

1941

Average_duration

:

03:47

"Legend" is a symphonic poem composed by Welsh composer Daniel Jones in 1951. It was premiered on 22nd November 1951 by the BBC Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Sir Adrian Boult. The piece is divided into three movements and has a total duration of approximately 20 minutes. The first movement, titled "The Hero", begins with a bold and heroic theme played by the brass section. This theme is then developed and expanded upon throughout the movement, with the addition of various other themes and motifs. The music is characterized by its rhythmic drive and energetic orchestration, with the percussion section playing a prominent role. The second movement, titled "The Saint", is more introspective and contemplative in nature. It begins with a haunting melody played by the strings, which is then taken up by the woodwind section. The music gradually builds in intensity, with the addition of brass and percussion, before subsiding back into a more subdued mood. The final movement, titled "The Warrior", is the most dramatic and intense of the three. It begins with a frenzied and chaotic section, with the various sections of the orchestra playing off each other in a dissonant and unsettling manner. This eventually gives way to a more structured and rhythmic section, with the brass and percussion once again taking a prominent role. The music builds to a powerful climax before subsiding into a quiet and reflective coda. Overall, "Legend" is a highly evocative and atmospheric work, showcasing Jones' skill as an orchestrator and his ability to create vivid musical landscapes. The piece is characterized by its use of bold and memorable themes, rhythmic drive, and dramatic contrasts. It remains one of Jones' most popular and frequently performed works.

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