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Alan Rawsthorne’s Elegiac Rhapsody for String Orchestra was composed in 1964 as a tribute to Constant Lambert, who had died in 1951. The piece reflects Rawsthorne’s distinctive style, characterized by structural clarity and expressive yet controlled lyricism. It is a deeply personal work, marked by a sense of reflection and restrained emotion rather than overt sentimentality.

The music unfolds through a continuous rhapsodic structure, featuring fluid thematic development and rich string textures. Rawsthorne employs shifting tonal centers and dynamic contrasts to create an expressive depth, moving between introspective, mournful passages and more intense, dramatic moments. His use of the string orchestra enhances the sense of intimacy and poignancy throughout the piece.

As an elegy, the Rhapsody maintains a dignified and focused character, avoiding excess while conveying a profound sense of loss and remembrance. Its cohesion and natural progression highlight Rawsthorne’s craftsmanship, demonstrating his ability to merge emotion with formal strength. This work stands as a fitting homage to Lambert and a testament to Rawsthorne’s mastery of the string orchestra.