Composer

:

Vitezslav Novák

Genre

:

Orchestral

Style

:

Tone Poem

Average_duration

:

20:16

Eternal Longing, Op. 33 is a symphonic poem composed by Czech composer Vitezslav Novák in 1911. The piece was premiered on January 26, 1912, in Prague, conducted by Karel Kovařovic. The symphonic poem is divided into three movements, each depicting a different aspect of the eternal longing. The first movement, marked "Lento," begins with a somber and mournful melody played by the cellos and basses. The theme is then taken up by the violins and gradually builds in intensity, reaching a climax before subsiding back into the mournful opening theme. The movement ends with a sense of unresolved tension, leaving the listener with a feeling of longing. The second movement, marked "Allegro con fuoco," is more energetic and passionate than the first. The movement begins with a fiery theme played by the brass and percussion, which is then taken up by the strings. The music builds in intensity, with the various sections of the orchestra trading off the theme. The movement reaches a frenzied climax before subsiding back into the opening theme, which is played in a more subdued manner. The final movement, marked "Andante sostenuto," is the most introspective of the three. The movement begins with a gentle and melancholic melody played by the woodwinds. The theme is then taken up by the strings, and the music gradually builds in intensity, reaching a climax before subsiding back into the gentle opening theme. The movement ends with a sense of resignation, as if the eternal longing will never be fulfilled. Overall, Eternal Longing, Op. 33 is a powerful and emotional work that captures the essence of the human experience. Novák's use of melody, harmony, and orchestration creates a sense of longing and yearning that is both universal and deeply personal. The piece is a testament to Novák's skill as a composer and his ability to convey complex emotions through music.

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