Composer

:

Ernst von Dohnányi

Genre

:

Symphony

Style

:

Symphony

Compose Date

:

1943 - 1944

Publication Date

:

1946

First Performance

:

Nov 23, 1948

Average_duration

:

49:43

Ernst von Dohnányi's Symphony No. 2 in E major, Op. 40, was composed between 1943 and 1944, during World War II. The symphony was premiered on January 9, 1947, by the Boston Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Serge Koussevitzky. The symphony consists of four movements, with a total duration of approximately 45 minutes. The first movement, marked Allegro appassionato, begins with a bold and energetic theme in the strings, which is then taken up by the woodwinds and brass. The second theme is more lyrical and introspective, featuring a solo violin. The development section is characterized by complex counterpoint and rhythmic interplay between the different sections of the orchestra. The movement ends with a triumphant restatement of the main theme. The second movement, marked Andante, is a lyrical and melancholic interlude, featuring a solo oboe and a solo cello. The theme is developed through a series of variations, with the orchestra gradually building in intensity and complexity. The third movement, marked Scherzo, is a lively and playful dance, featuring a syncopated rhythm and a catchy melody. The trio section is more subdued, featuring a solo clarinet and a solo horn. The scherzo returns, with the orchestra building to a frenzied climax. The final movement, marked Finale, is a grand and majestic conclusion to the symphony. The opening theme is reminiscent of the first movement, but with a more triumphant and celebratory character. The second theme is more introspective, featuring a solo flute and a solo horn. The development section is characterized by complex counterpoint and rhythmic interplay, building to a climactic restatement of the main theme. The symphony ends with a triumphant coda, featuring the full orchestra in a grand and majestic finale. Overall, Dohnányi's Symphony No. 2 is a powerful and expressive work, characterized by its bold themes, complex counterpoint, and rhythmic interplay. It is a testament to the composer's skill and creativity, and remains a beloved work in the orchestral repertoire.

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