Composer

:

Walter Piston

Genre

:

Concerto

Style

:

Concerto

Compose Date

:

1957

Average_duration

:

24:39

Movement_count

:

3

Movement ....

Walter Piston's Viola Concerto is a three-movement work for solo viola and orchestra. It was composed in 1948 and premiered on January 27, 1950, by the Boston Symphony Orchestra, with William Primrose as the soloist and Charles Munch conducting. The first movement, marked Allegro moderato, begins with a lively and rhythmic theme in the orchestra, which is then taken up by the solo viola. The movement features a number of contrasting themes and moods, including a lyrical second theme and a more agitated middle section. The movement ends with a return to the opening material. The second movement, marked Adagio, is a slow and introspective meditation for the solo viola. The orchestra provides a delicate and atmospheric accompaniment, with shimmering strings and gentle woodwind solos. The movement is notable for its expressive lyricism and rich harmonies. The final movement, marked Allegro con brio, is a lively and energetic romp that showcases the virtuosic capabilities of the soloist. The movement features a number of playful and rhythmic themes, as well as a more lyrical middle section. The movement builds to a thrilling conclusion, with the soloist and orchestra trading off rapid-fire runs and flourishes. Overall, Piston's Viola Concerto is a masterful work that combines technical brilliance with expressive depth. The solo viola is given ample opportunity to shine, with a wide range of moods and textures explored throughout the three movements. The orchestration is colorful and inventive, with a particular emphasis on the woodwinds and percussion. The work has become a staple of the viola repertoire and is widely regarded as one of Piston's finest compositions.

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