Abstract:
The genre "Sinfonia Concertante" typically features one or more solo instruments
interacting with an accompanying orchestra. It is neither a concerto nor a formal
symphony, but a hybrid of the two. In this composition, the horn is the featured
instrument, accompanied by a chamber orchestra consisting of 1 Flute (doubling
Piccolo), 1 Oboe, 2 Clarinets (second player doubling Bass Clarinet), 1 Bassoon, 1
Trumpet, 1 Trombone, 2 Percussionists, and a full complement of strings. The piece
exhibits characteristics of a traditional symphony through the use of primary and
subordinate theme groups that are contrasted in character, harmonic areas, and
orchestration. The work explores the concept of rhythmic juxtaposition by the casting of
a motive against an augmented version of itself. In general, the use of recurring themes
and motivic fragments as well as a recycling of pitch material help to tie the two
movements together as a cohesive whole.