Composer

:

Herbert Howells

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Rhapsody

Average_duration

:

18:55

Movement_count

:

3

Movement ....

Herbert Howells' 'Rhapsodies (3), Op. 17' is a set of three pieces for organ, composed in 1919. The work was premiered by the composer himself at St. John's College, Cambridge, in the same year. The three movements are titled 'Allegro con brio', 'Andante espressivo', and 'Allegro giocoso', respectively. The first movement, 'Allegro con brio', is a lively and energetic piece, characterized by its use of syncopated rhythms and driving bass lines. The movement is in sonata form, with a bold and assertive opening theme that is developed throughout the piece. The middle section of the movement features a more lyrical and introspective theme, before returning to the energetic opening material. The second movement, 'Andante espressivo', is a more contemplative and introspective piece, characterized by its use of rich harmonies and expressive melodies. The movement is in ternary form, with a melancholy opening theme that is contrasted by a more hopeful and uplifting middle section. The movement ends with a return to the opening material, but with a more subdued and introspective character. The final movement, 'Allegro giocoso', is a playful and lively piece, characterized by its use of playful rhythms and virtuosic flourishes. The movement is in rondo form, with a lively and energetic opening theme that is contrasted by a more lyrical and expressive middle section. The movement ends with a return to the opening material, but with a more frenzied and exuberant character. Overall, Howells' 'Rhapsodies (3), Op. 17' is a virtuosic and expressive work for organ, showcasing the composer's skill in both composition and performance. The work is characterized by its use of rich harmonies, expressive melodies, and playful rhythms, and is a testament to Howells' mastery of the organ as an instrument.

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