Composer

:

Witold Lutosławski

Genre

:

Symphony

Style

:

Symphony

Compose Date

:

1993

Average_duration

:

21:54

Symphony No. 4 is a composition by the Polish composer Witold Lutosławski. It was composed between 1988 and 1992 and premiered on September 12, 1993, by the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Esa-Pekka Salonen. The symphony is divided into three movements and has a duration of approximately 25 minutes. The first movement, marked "Aleatoric – Ad Libitum," is characterized by its use of chance elements. The orchestra is divided into groups, and each group is given a set of musical materials to play. The conductor cues the groups to begin and end their sections, but the exact timing and order of the sections are left up to chance. This creates a constantly shifting texture that is unpredictable and unique in each performance. The second movement, marked "Direct," is more traditionally structured. It features a solo violin that plays a lyrical melody over a pulsing accompaniment in the strings. The melody is gradually taken up by other instruments in the orchestra, building to a climax before subsiding back into the pulsing accompaniment. The third movement, marked "Intrada – Allegro," is the most energetic and rhythmic of the three. It begins with a fanfare-like introduction before launching into a fast and complex rhythmic section. The music is characterized by its use of syncopation and irregular meters, creating a sense of tension and excitement. The movement builds to a frenzied climax before ending abruptly. Overall, Symphony No. 4 is a complex and challenging work that showcases Lutosławski's innovative approach to composition. Its use of chance elements and unconventional structures make it a unique addition to the symphonic repertoire.

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