Starboard Symphony

[Amythe]

I wrote a symphony. It's my first attempt at a multi-movement piece, so feedback is very much encouraged.

[reith]

It's a nice piece all right and this comes over as more of a chamber symphony. A score would have been nice just to check what's going on here and there (in passing, I noticed a couple of ornamental add-ons that seemed to detract from rather than add to the ensemble).

I wasn't too convinced by the accel at c 2'21". It didn't seem to be triggered by anything or lead to anything. Perhaps it could be built into a mini climax at the cadence (2'50").

Does the 2nd movement start at 2'50"? You have some nice thematic material/variations but it holds the same tonal centre up to 5'20" whereon you introduce an interesting rhythmic figure but in the same tonality. In fact, it's the same tonality as the opening.

Now, this is fine if it's what you want. This is only my opinion. It doesn't conform to the usual definition of a symphony that expects subjects to be in different keys but then, the "symphony" has moved on a bit since Mozart's day - these days anything goes...well, almost. The harmony (to me) needs varying to keep the listener engaged. The ending was goos "as is" and would have more impact if approached by some kind of build up by way of modulations, maybe even going into the relative major.

But, congratulations on coming up with an 8 minute work at your time of life that holds together! It's a nice piece but would be more engaging with variation in the harmony.

Good luck,
reith.

[Amythe]

Thanks for your reply!
I wanted the same tonality throughout the song because I wanted to keep one theme reoccuring throughout the song, but I do agree, it isn't exactly what the classical period coined as a symphony.

[reith]

Originally Posted by Amythe

Thanks for your reply!
I wanted the same tonality throughout the song because I wanted to keep one theme reoccuring throughout the song, but I do agree, it isn't exactly what the classical period coined as a symphony.

Yes, you are the composer so you have the last word!