Zwilich: Symphony No. 5

Description

My Symphony No. 5 (Concerto for Orchestra) was commissioned by The Juilliard School in honor of Bruce and Suzie Kovner with the generous support of the Trust of Francis Goelet. The piece is in four movements: Prologue, Celebration, Memorial, and Epilogue. Like most of my large-scale works, the long line of the work grows from material in the opening movement ? sometimes in clearly recognizable motives and variations, but most frequently in more subtle evolutions. The second movement was written in celebration of the vibrant energy of the young virtuoso orchestra, and the third movement was written in remembrance of composers whose voices were silenced by tyranny. The entire work treats the orchestra like a huge chamber ensemble, in which each player or section can be a brilliant soloist one moment and a sensitive partner the next. Two very personal reflections also affected the nature of this piece: for one, the special importance of Juilliard in my life. I not only received my doctorate at Juilliard, I found my voice as a composer while there. and I loved writing for the Juilliard Orchestra knowing the dedication, skill, and artistry of these performers. Also, I have been moved by James Conlon?s dedication to the music of composers who were politically silenced. It was a special pleasure to write knowing that he would be the conductor to bring my work to life.