Composer

:

Jean Sibelius

Genre

:

Miscellaneous

Style

:

Miscellaneous

Compose Date

:

1899

Average_duration

:

10:55

Jean Sibelius composed 'The Breaking of the Ice on the River Oulu, Op. 30' in 1899. The piece was premiered on March 4, 1900, in Helsinki, Finland. It is a single-movement tone poem that lasts approximately 10 minutes. The piece begins with a slow and ominous introduction, representing the stillness of the frozen river. The music gradually builds in intensity, as if the ice is starting to crack and break apart. The main theme is introduced by the strings, which is a lively and energetic melody that represents the rushing water of the river. The theme is then passed around to different sections of the orchestra, including the woodwinds and brass. The middle section of the piece is more subdued, with a solo violin playing a melancholic melody that represents the sadness of winter coming to an end. The music gradually builds in intensity once again, as the ice continues to break apart and the river flows freely. The main theme returns, this time with even more energy and excitement than before. The piece ends with a triumphant coda, as the river flows freely and the ice has completely broken apart. The music is fast and energetic, with the entire orchestra playing together in a joyful celebration of spring. Overall, 'The Breaking of the Ice on the River Oulu, Op. 30' is a vivid and evocative tone poem that captures the excitement and energy of the changing seasons. Sibelius's use of orchestration and melody creates a powerful and emotional experience for the listener.

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