Composer

:

Johan Svendsen

Genre

:

Symphony

Style

:

Symphony

Compose Date

:

1858

Average_duration

:

35:37

Movement_count

:

4

Movement ....

Johan Svendsen's Symphony No. 1 in D major, Op. 4, was composed in 1866 when he was just 23 years old. It premiered in Christiania (now Oslo) on October 7, 1867, with the composer conducting. The symphony is in four movements and has a total running time of approximately 30 minutes. The first movement, marked Allegro, begins with a bold and majestic theme in the strings, which is then taken up by the woodwinds and brass. The development section features a lyrical theme in the cellos and basses, which is then passed around the orchestra. The movement ends with a triumphant restatement of the opening theme. The second movement, marked Andante sostenuto, is a lyrical and expressive piece in which the strings take center stage. The main theme is introduced by the violins and then passed around the orchestra, with the woodwinds and brass providing delicate accompaniment. The movement ends quietly and introspectively. The third movement, marked Allegretto scherzando, is a playful and energetic scherzo. The main theme is introduced by the strings and then taken up by the woodwinds and brass. The trio section features a more lyrical theme in the strings, which is then developed and expanded upon. The movement ends with a lively restatement of the scherzo theme. The final movement, marked Allegro molto, is a lively and exuberant piece that brings the symphony to a rousing conclusion. The main theme is introduced by the strings and then taken up by the woodwinds and brass. The development section features a more lyrical theme in the strings, which is then passed around the orchestra. The movement ends with a triumphant restatement of the opening theme. Overall, Svendsen's Symphony No. 1 is a youthful and exuberant work that showcases the composer's skill in orchestration and his ability to write memorable melodies. The symphony is notable for its use of folk-like melodies and its incorporation of Norwegian musical traditions. It remains one of Svendsen's most popular and frequently performed works.

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