Symphony No. 5 for orchestra

Abstract

The Symphony No. 5 (1996) is derived from an earlier work (Symphony No. 1) of the composer’s free atonal period. A twelve-tone set provides the motivic material that pervades the composition. The symphony begins with a slow introduction leading to a scherzo-like section. Half-step figurations and angular rhythmic motives control the flow of the movement. After an expressive song-like section, the scherzo reappears, leading to a frenzied conclusion. The second movement is calm and lyrical. A prominent three-note figure appears, at times elongated to an uneven number of notes, which along with some quick and short climaxes, produces an unstable feeling. However, the tranquility of the lyrical section prevails. The finale is highly rhytmic and vivacious. It is embellished by the colors of numerous percussion sounds, and short contrapuntal sections lead to dense climaxes. The movement ends with a rousing crescendo.