REPRINT SERIES

With a rumble of timpani and raw strokes of open strings, the Overture begins with a blazing Allegro. The strings take off in running figures punctuated by brass blasts and woodwind interjections. Even when the orchestra suddenly drops off in dynamic, the strings rouse the rest of the ensemble in a rapid crescendo. After a few energetic chords, the woodwinds sustain and usher in the contemplative Andante section. Here, the winds take the lead with intertwining solo lines. Lush strings and noble horns fill out the sound, creating a respite from the frenetic opening. This tranquility is fleeting, as the violins reclaim the urgent tempo of the opening Allegro. Brass fanfares lend a triumphal spirit to the rush to the decisive final chords. With its clear form consisting of short, contrasting segments, the Overture packs the power of a larger symphonic work into a compact six minutes.