Composer

:

Bohuslav Martinu

Genre

:

Symphony

Style

:

Symphony

Compose Date

:

May 29, 1943 - Jul 24, 1943

Publication Date

:

1966

First Performance

:

Oct 26, 1943

Average_duration

:

24:03

Movement_count

:

4

Movement ....

Symphony No. 2, H. 295, is a four-movement symphony composed by Bohuslav Martinu. The symphony was composed in 1943 while Martinu was living in the United States during World War II. The symphony was premiered on November 17, 1943, by the Boston Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Serge Koussevitzky. The first movement, marked Moderato, begins with a slow and mysterious introduction, featuring a solo clarinet. The main theme is then introduced by the strings, which is characterized by its rhythmic drive and syncopated accents. The development section features a fugue-like texture, with the main theme being passed between different sections of the orchestra. The movement ends with a recapitulation of the main theme, followed by a coda that brings the movement to a quiet close. The second movement, marked Poco allegro, is a scherzo that features a playful and energetic theme in the strings. The middle section of the movement features a lyrical theme in the woodwinds, which is then developed and combined with the main theme in the final section of the movement. The third movement, marked Andante moderato, is a slow and introspective movement that features a lyrical theme in the strings. The middle section of the movement features a solo oboe, which is then joined by the rest of the woodwinds in a delicate and expressive passage. The movement ends with a return of the main theme, which is then developed and expanded upon in the coda. The final movement, marked Allegro con brio, is a lively and energetic movement that features a driving rhythm and syncopated accents. The main theme is introduced by the strings, which is then developed and expanded upon throughout the movement. The middle section of the movement features a lyrical theme in the woodwinds, which is then combined with the main theme in the final section of the movement. The symphony ends with a triumphant coda that brings the work to a thrilling close. Overall, Symphony No. 2, H. 295, is a dynamic and expressive work that showcases Martinu's skill as a composer. The symphony features a wide range of textures and moods, from the mysterious and introspective first movement to the lively and energetic final movement. The work is a testament to Martinu's ability to blend traditional forms and techniques with his own unique style and voice.

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