Violin Concerto - Alan Bush

BBC Northern Symphony Orchestra conducted by Bernard Keefe. Mareen Smith as the violin soloist.

I - First movement - (attacca): 0:00
II - Second movement - (attacca): 11:34
III - Third movement: 20:24

Bush's Violin Concerto was composed between 1946-8, being dedicated to violinist Max Rostal. It was premiered on August 25 of 1949, performed by the London Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Basil Cameron, along with Max Rostal as the soloist.

The work is written in three movements performed continuously. Alan Bush said that the violin is intended to represent the individual, while the orchestra is world society. The work, as it unfolds, suggests the individual struggles and his final absorption into society for the common good. The work is notable for using techniques similar to Schoenberg's twelve-note system but in a tonal context.

The first movement is written in ternary form. It begins with a cadenza-like introduction from the solo violin, supported by string pizzicati. A pulsating string passage introduces a rhythmic main theme on the brass. The soloist takes it and develops it in a virtuous manner. A lyrical but serious second theme is then presented by the wood, soon taken by the violinist. Over sustained chords, the violin soars upwards in a series of rhapsodic phrases. The main theme is vigorously recapitulated, before a great climax leads us to the next part.

The second movement is very free in form. It opens with a meditative main theme presented by the soloist, interrupted by menacing orchestral outbursts. A long and slow cadenza ensues, highly virtuosic and expressive in nature. After the central part, an extensive dialogue between soloist and orchestra begins, gradually transforming the material. A slow transition leads us to the final part.

The third movement is written in sonata form, with material derived from the first movement. It begins with a rhythmic main theme introduced by the soloist, cheerfully expanded by the orchestra. A lyrical second theme is also presented by the soloist, offering contrast. A development then begins, reaching a climax is reached, after which comes the recapitulation of the themes. A lively coda ends the work with optimism.

Picture: "View in the South of France" by the King Charles III of England.

Musical analysis mostly written by myself. Source: https://rb.gy/2ad0a

Unfortunately, the score is not available.

Видео Violin Concerto - Alan Bush канала Sergio Cánovas