Symphony No. 2 (Penderecki)


Polish composer Krzysztof Penderecki wrote his Symphony No. 2 during the winter of 1979–80. Sometimes referred to as the "Christmas Symphony", neither the score nor the parts make any reference to this moniker.

Structure

The symphony, lasting 30–35 minutes, is in one movement employing a modified sonata form. Sections are marked: Moderato, Allegretto, Lento, Tempo I and Allegretto.

Instrumentation

, flutes, oboes, cor anglais, clarinets, bassoons, contrabassoon, horns, trumpets, trombones, tubas, percussion, celesta, strings.

Premiere

The New York Philharmonic, conducted by Zubin Mehta, gave the first performance of the symphony on May 1, 1980.

Recordings