Composer

:

Joseph Martin Kraus

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Cantata

Compose Date

:

1777

Average_duration

:

13:29

Movement_count

:

4

Movement ....

Joseph Martin Kraus was a German composer who lived from 1756 to 1792. He was known for his innovative and expressive style, which combined elements of the Classical and Romantic periods. One of his most famous works is "The Apology," VB 43, which was composed in 1786. "The Apology" is a symphony in three movements. The first movement is marked "Allegro con brio" and is in sonata form. It begins with a bold and energetic theme in the strings, which is then taken up by the woodwinds and brass. The development section is characterized by intricate counterpoint and dramatic shifts in dynamics. The movement ends with a triumphant recapitulation of the main theme. The second movement is marked "Andante con moto" and is in ternary form. It features a lyrical and expressive melody in the strings, which is accompanied by delicate arpeggios in the woodwinds. The middle section of the movement is more turbulent, with a faster tempo and more dissonant harmonies. The movement ends with a return to the peaceful opening theme. The third movement is marked "Allegro assai" and is in rondo form. It is a lively and playful movement, with a catchy main theme that is repeated several times throughout the movement. The middle section features a more subdued and lyrical melody, which is then developed into a virtuosic cadenza for the solo violin. The movement ends with a triumphant restatement of the main theme. Overall, "The Apology" is a masterful work that showcases Kraus's skill as a composer. It is characterized by its bold and expressive melodies, intricate counterpoint, and dramatic shifts in dynamics. The work premiered in Stockholm in 1786 and has since become a beloved piece in the classical repertoire.

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