Symphony No. 4

Study score

Forces or Category: Full orchestra

Orchestration: 3 fl (II+picc, III opt), 3 ob (III+ ca opt), 2 cl, bcl (opt), 2 bn, cbn (opt), 4 hn, 2 tpt, 3 tbn, tba, timp, 2 perc (SD, tri, cym, BD), str

Described by Walton as the 'greatest symphony since Beethoven', Vaughan Williams's fourth symphony is noted for its dissonant harmonic ...

Symphony No. 4

Study score

Description

Described by Walton as the 'greatest symphony since Beethoven', Vaughan Williams's fourth symphony was composed in 1935 and is noted for its abrasively dissonant harmonic language, unlike much of the composer's other work. This new, scholarly edition, edited by David Matthews, will replace the existing OUP edition from 1935 and the Eulenburg edition from 1983. The preliminary text will include a preface, sources and editorial method, and detailed textual notes.

Symphony No. 4

Study score

Ralph Vaughan Williams

Composer Information

Ralph Vaughan Williams (1872-1958)

In the fifty years since his death, Vaughan Williams has come to be regarded as one of the finest British composers of the 20th century. He has a particularly wide-ranging catalogue of works, including choral works, symphonies, concerti, and opera. His searching and visionary imagination, combined with a flexibility in writing for all levels of music-making, has meant that his music is as popular today as it ever has been.

The Ralph Vaughan Williams Society