Symphony No.2 in B-flat major - Johan Svendsen

Описание: Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra conducted by Neeme Järvi.

I - Allegro: 0:00
II - Andante sostenuto: 9:06
III - Intermezzo. Allegro giusto: 15:09
IV - Finale. Andante - Allegro con fuoco - Stretto: 20:30

Svendsen's Symphony No.2 was composed between 1874-6, in one of the composer's most creative periods. It was premiered in Oslo on October 14 of 1876, conducted by Svendsen. It was well-received, and the third movement was encored for an enthusiastic audience. The success soon followed in the rest of north Europe. While similar to his first symphony, the work acquires some elements of Wagner, whose operas were being acclaimed at the time.

The first movement is written in sonata form. It begins with a solemn main theme presented by cellos and horns, rising in an opulent climax of Wagnerian echoes. A lighter and more rhythmic second theme is then presented by the wood. A complete reexposure of these materials ensues. An expressive and romantic development transforms the themes, before the recapitulation brings them back; the main one on the flute and the second on strings. A cheerful coda, based on the main theme, ends the movement.

The second movement is structured as a theme and variations. It opens with a laconic horn opening, followed by the exposition of a lyrical and peaceful main theme on clarinet. A series of rich and colourful variations begin as the theme is taken by other instruments; wood, horns, strings. An expressive climax is reached, followed by a placid section. The theme is recapitulated in a brilliant climax, which quickly dies away in a calm coda.

The third movement is an intermezzo in an expanded ternary form. It begins with a rhythmic main theme in form of a Norwegian peasant dance. The trio presents us a lyrical second theme of folkloric flavour as well, unfolded by the woodwinds and strings. The main theme is then recapitulated in a varied manner, followed by the trio. A cheerful climax is reached as the main theme reappears, after which the movement ends with charming coda.

The fourth movement is written in sonata form. It opens with a slow, contemplative introduction that anticipates elements further exposed later on. An accelerando leads us to the main allegro, in which a vigorous and lively main theme is presented by strings. The clarinet then introduces a lyrical second theme of Nordic spirit. The following development is more dramatic and expressive, before the music subdues in a pianissimo section. The recapitulation brings back the themes. A triumphal coda ends the whole work brilliantly.

Picture: "The Stugunøset in the Filefjeld" (1851) by the Danish-Norwegian painter Johan Christian Dahl.

Musical analysis partially written by myself. Sources: https://bit.ly/43xHy6I and https://bit.ly/43t98SL

To check the score: https://bit.ly/3A7gez3