Composer

:

Arnold Bax

Genre

:

Orchestral

Style

:

Orchestral

Compose Date

:

1933 - 1934

Average_duration

:

15:30

Arnold Bax's 'Northern Ballad No. 2' is a piece of music that was composed in 1927. It was premiered on 22nd November 1927 at the Queen's Hall in London, conducted by Adrian Boult. The piece is a part of Bax's series of 'Northern Ballads', which were inspired by the landscapes and folklore of the British Isles. The piece is divided into three movements, each of which is characterized by a different mood and tempo. The first movement, marked 'Allegro moderato', is a lively and energetic section that features a driving rhythm and a sense of urgency. The second movement, marked 'Lento', is a slower and more contemplative section that features a haunting melody and a sense of melancholy. The final movement, marked 'Allegro con fuoco', is a fiery and passionate section that features a fast tempo and a sense of excitement. The piece is characterized by Bax's use of rich harmonies, lush orchestration, and evocative melodies. The music is heavily influenced by the landscapes and folklore of the British Isles, and Bax's use of folk melodies and rhythms gives the piece a distinctly nationalistic flavor. The music is also characterized by its use of contrast, with the different movements featuring contrasting moods and tempos. Overall, 'Northern Ballad No. 2' is a powerful and evocative piece of music that showcases Bax's skill as a composer. Its use of folk melodies and nationalistic themes make it a quintessentially British piece of music, and its rich harmonies and lush orchestration make it a joy to listen to.

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