Composer

:

Oskar Morawetz

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Divertimento

Compose Date

:

1948 - 1954

Average_duration

:

11:19

Oskar Morawetz's 'Divertimento for strings' is a three-movement work composed in 1947. The piece was premiered on March 10, 1948, by the Toronto Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Walter Susskind. The first movement, marked Allegro, is characterized by its lively and energetic nature. The movement begins with a rhythmic motif in the violins, which is then passed around the different sections of the orchestra. The middle section of the movement features a lyrical melody in the violins, which is accompanied by pizzicato in the lower strings. The movement ends with a return to the opening material, building to a lively and exciting conclusion. The second movement, marked Andante, is a slow and contemplative piece. The movement begins with a mournful melody in the violins, which is then taken up by the other sections of the orchestra. The middle section of the movement features a solo violin playing a haunting melody, accompanied by the rest of the orchestra. The movement ends with a return to the opening material, but with a sense of resignation and acceptance. The final movement, marked Allegro molto, is a fast and playful piece. The movement begins with a lively and syncopated rhythm in the violins, which is then taken up by the rest of the orchestra. The middle section of the movement features a solo violin playing a virtuosic melody, accompanied by the rest of the orchestra. The movement ends with a return to the opening material, building to a frenzied and exciting conclusion. Overall, Morawetz's 'Divertimento for strings' is a lively and engaging work that showcases the virtuosity of the string orchestra. The piece is characterized by its rhythmic vitality, lyrical melodies, and playful nature. It has become a staple of the string orchestra repertoire and is frequently performed in concert halls around the world.

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