Composer

:

Charles Gounod

Genre

:

Symphony

Style

:

Symphony

First Performance

:

1856

Average_duration

:

34:40

Movement_count

:

4

Movement ....

Symphony No. 2 in E flat major is a four-movement symphony composed by Charles Gounod. It was composed in 1855 and premiered on January 25, 1856, at the Salle Herz in Paris. The symphony is scored for 2 flutes, 2 oboes, 2 clarinets, 2 bassoons, 4 horns, 2 trumpets, 3 trombones, timpani, and strings. The first movement, marked Adagio - Allegro, begins with a slow introduction featuring a lyrical melody played by the strings. The main Allegro section is characterized by a lively and energetic theme played by the strings and woodwinds. The development section features a fugato based on the main theme, and the movement ends with a recapitulation of the main theme. The second movement, marked Larghetto, is a slow and lyrical movement featuring a beautiful melody played by the strings. The woodwinds provide delicate accompaniment, and the movement ends with a gentle coda. The third movement, marked Scherzo, is a lively and playful movement featuring a fast and rhythmic theme played by the strings. The trio section features a contrasting melody played by the woodwinds, and the movement ends with a return to the main theme. The fourth and final movement, marked Finale: Allegro molto, is a fast and energetic movement featuring a lively theme played by the strings. The woodwinds provide playful counterpoint, and the movement features a fugato section based on the main theme. The symphony ends with a triumphant coda. Overall, Symphony No. 2 in E flat major is a beautiful and well-crafted symphony that showcases Gounod's skill as a composer. The symphony features lush melodies, playful rhythms, and intricate counterpoint, and it is a testament to Gounod's mastery of the symphonic form.

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