Violin Concerto in G Minor Op. 80
Samuel Coleridge-TaylorPiece Duration: 32:25
About this Piece
This entry is formatted a little differently then other musical pieces on the rest of the database. As opposed to assigning keywords that show the musical elements and composer's techniques, this entry is designed to provide a welcoming entry point for those beginning their journey in discovering classical music.
The violin concerto is performed in three movements. The first and second movements are each followed by a brief, silent pause. In concertos, the first movement and third movement are generally at a faster tempo while the second movement usually moves at a slower tempo.
Take a tour of the concerto below, with each notable passage highlighting interesting moments in the music. These passages also provide you with memorable landmarks that will guide and support your musical journey through the piece.
Notable Passages
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The orchestra opens the piece in solidarity, rhythmically moving together. Each musical phrase sounds in pairs with an opening question phrase immediately followed by the answer phrase.
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The violin enters playing in time with each phrase of the orchestra. However, the violin seems to have a little extra to say as each phrase is extended with the violin offering a stream of fast-moving notes at each question and answer's end.
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The tempo moves faster here, and the music is lighter and bouncy.
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The orchestra makes a powerful return home to the opening section of the piece.
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The violin plays a cadenza. This is where the orchestra pauses and provides the violin a chance to play in a brilliant and virtuosic way (the violinist gets to show off). In this cadenza, we hear the violinist play double stops, playing two notes at the same time.
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The first movement comes to a powerful close as the orchestra and violin accelerate to the end.
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The second movement opens with a beautiful, quiet, and gentle musical moment performed by the string section alone.
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A powerful moment returns with the orchestra trading phrases with the violinist.
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The second movement gives us a clear moments of contrast between a quiet phrase that is followed by a louder phrase.
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The third movement opens with the violin performing a lyrical melody with the orchestra punctuating the accompaniment with short, supportive notes.
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We can hear some drama here with contrast provided by the orchestra's heavy, fast moving, accented phrase that is immediately followed by the violin's solo phrase.
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The full orchestra continues the drama, creating a massive powerful sound.
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The violin creates a beautiful quiet moment with fast-moving rising arpeggios that seem to ascend into the heavens.
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The third movement comes to a close, first with rising melodic phrases, moving higher and higher, and then finally arriving at a strong and triumphant end.