Composer

:

Morton Gould

Genre

:

Concerto

Style

:

Concerto

Compose Date

:

1953

Average_duration

:

17:59

Movement_count

:

4

Movement ....

Dance Variations is a composition by Morton Gould, an American composer, pianist, and conductor. The piece was composed in 1957 and premiered on January 16, 1958, by the New York Philharmonic under the direction of Leonard Bernstein. The composition consists of five movements, each of which is based on a different dance style. The first movement, titled "Tango," is a sultry and passionate dance in 2/4 time. The second movement, "Waltz," is a graceful and elegant dance in 3/4 time. The third movement, "Rag," is a lively and syncopated dance in 2/4 time, reminiscent of the ragtime music of the early 20th century. The fourth movement, "Foxtrot," is a smooth and sophisticated dance in 4/4 time. The final movement, "Mambo," is a fast and rhythmic dance in 4/4 time, with a strong emphasis on percussion. One of the characteristics of Dance Variations is its use of orchestration. Gould employs a wide range of instruments, including strings, woodwinds, brass, and percussion, to create a rich and varied sound. He also uses different instrumental combinations to highlight the unique qualities of each dance style. Another characteristic of the composition is its accessibility. Dance Variations is a lively and engaging piece of music that is easy to listen to and enjoy. It has been performed by orchestras around the world and has become a popular choice for dance performances and other events. Overall, Dance Variations is a masterful composition that showcases Morton Gould's skill as a composer and his love of dance music. Its five movements offer a diverse and entertaining musical experience that is sure to delight audiences of all ages.

More....