Composer

:

Morton Gould

Genre

:

Orchestral

Style

:

Orchestral

Compose Date

:

1938

First Performance

:

May 1, 1938

Average_duration

:

7:46

Movement_count

:

3

Movement ....

American Symphonette No. 2 is a composition by Morton Gould, an American composer, conductor, and pianist. The piece was composed in 1938 and premiered on January 27, 1939, by the New York Philharmonic under the direction of John Barbirolli. The symphonette is a four-movement work that showcases Gould's unique style, which blends elements of jazz, popular music, and classical music. The first movement, titled "Pavanne," is a slow and stately dance in triple meter. The melody is introduced by the strings and is later taken up by the woodwinds and brass. The movement features lush harmonies and a sense of nostalgia that is characteristic of Gould's music. The second movement, "Blues," is a lively and rhythmic piece that draws on the blues tradition. The movement features a call-and-response structure, with the brass and woodwinds trading phrases. The movement also includes a solo for the trumpet, which is a nod to the jazz tradition. The third movement, "Scherzo," is a fast and playful piece that features intricate rhythms and syncopation. The movement is characterized by its use of ostinato patterns, which are repeated throughout the piece. The movement also includes a section in which the percussion section takes center stage, showcasing Gould's skill in writing for percussion. The final movement, "Molto allegro," is a fast and energetic piece that brings the symphonette to a thrilling conclusion. The movement features a driving rhythm and a sense of forward momentum that is characteristic of Gould's music. The movement also includes a section in which the brass and percussion sections engage in a lively dialogue. Overall, American Symphonette No. 2 is a vibrant and engaging work that showcases Gould's unique style. The piece draws on a variety of musical traditions, including jazz, popular music, and classical music, and blends them together in a way that is both innovative and accessible. The symphonette remains a popular work in the repertoire and is a testament to Gould's enduring legacy as a composer.

More....