Composer

:

William Levi Dawson

Genre

:

Symphony

Style

:

Symphony

Compose Date

:

1934

Average_duration

:

30:58

Movement_count

:

3

Movement ....

The Negro Folk Symphony is a composition by William Levi Dawson, an African American composer and conductor. It was composed in 1934 and premiered on May 2, 1934, by the Philadelphia Orchestra under the direction of Leopold Stokowski. The symphony is a tribute to the African American folk music tradition and is considered one of Dawson's most significant works. The symphony consists of three movements, each of which is based on a different African American folk song. The first movement, "The Bond of Africa," is based on the spiritual "I Couldn't Hear Nobody Pray." It begins with a slow, mournful introduction that gradually builds in intensity, leading to a lively and rhythmic section that features call-and-response between the orchestra and a solo trumpet. The movement ends with a return to the mournful theme, bringing the piece full circle. The second movement, "Hope in the Night," is based on the spiritual "Swing Low, Sweet Chariot." It begins with a hauntingly beautiful melody played by the strings, which is then taken up by the woodwinds and brass. The movement builds to a powerful climax before subsiding into a quiet, reflective coda. The final movement, "O, le' me shine, shine like a Morning Star!" is based on the folk song "Hallelujah, I'm a-travelin'." It is a lively and joyful piece that features syncopated rhythms and lively melodies. The movement builds to a rousing conclusion, with the orchestra and choir joining together in a triumphant finale. The Negro Folk Symphony is characterized by its use of African American folk melodies and rhythms, which Dawson weaves into a classical symphonic structure. The piece is also notable for its use of a choir, which sings in the final movement. Dawson's use of the choir reflects his belief in the importance of community and the power of music to bring people together. Overall, the Negro Folk Symphony is a powerful and moving tribute to the African American folk music tradition. It is a testament to Dawson's skill as a composer and his commitment to celebrating the rich cultural heritage of his people.

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