Composer

:

Paul Creston

Genre

:

Concerto

Style

:

Concerto

Compose Date

:

1960

Average_duration

:

26:04

Movement_count

:

3

Movement ....

Paul Creston's Violin Concerto No. 2, Op. 78, was composed in 1953 and premiered on January 14, 1954, by the New York Philharmonic, with the composer conducting and the soloist, Isaac Stern. The concerto is in three movements and has a total duration of approximately 25 minutes. The first movement, marked Allegro moderato, begins with a lively and rhythmic theme in the orchestra, which is then taken up by the solo violin. The movement features a number of contrasting themes, including a lyrical second theme and a more energetic third theme. The solo violin is given ample opportunity to display its virtuosity, with fast runs and intricate passages throughout the movement. The second movement, marked Andante espressivo, is a slow and lyrical interlude. The solo violin introduces a simple and plaintive melody, which is then taken up by the orchestra. The movement is characterized by its expressive and emotional quality, with the solo violin soaring above the lush orchestral accompaniment. The final movement, marked Allegro con brio, is a lively and energetic romp. The movement begins with a playful and syncopated theme in the orchestra, which is then taken up by the solo violin. The movement features a number of contrasting sections, including a lyrical second theme and a more frenetic third theme. The solo violin is once again given ample opportunity to display its virtuosity, with fast runs and intricate passages throughout the movement. Overall, Creston's Violin Concerto No. 2 is a virtuosic and expressive work that showcases the solo violin's range and versatility. The concerto is characterized by its rhythmic vitality, lyrical beauty, and emotional depth, and remains a popular and frequently performed work in the violin repertoire.

More....