Composer

:

Alfred Reed

Genre

:

Symphony

Style

:

Symphony

Compose Date

:

1977

Average_duration

:

22:29

Movement_count

:

3

Movement ....

Symphony No. 2 is a four-movement symphony composed by Alfred Reed. It was composed in 1976 and premiered on March 4, 1977, by the University of Miami Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Frederick Fennell. The first movement, marked "Moderato," begins with a slow, mysterious introduction featuring the low brass and percussion. The main theme is then introduced by the woodwinds, which is then developed throughout the movement. The movement ends with a recapitulation of the main theme. The second movement, marked "Allegro," is a lively scherzo featuring a playful melody in the woodwinds. The middle section of the movement features a slower, more lyrical theme in the strings. The scherzo theme returns, and the movement ends with a coda featuring a brass fanfare. The third movement, marked "Andante," is a slow, lyrical movement featuring a beautiful melody in the strings. The woodwinds and brass provide a gentle accompaniment, and the movement ends with a quiet, peaceful coda. The final movement, marked "Allegro con brio," is a fast, energetic movement featuring a driving rhythm and a lively melody in the brass. The middle section of the movement features a slower, more lyrical theme in the woodwinds. The fast tempo returns, and the symphony ends with a triumphant coda featuring a brass fanfare. Overall, Symphony No. 2 is a well-crafted work that showcases Reed's skill as a composer. The symphony features a variety of moods and textures, and the melodies are memorable and well-developed. The orchestration is colorful and effective, and the symphony is a fine example of the American symphonic tradition.

More....