symphonic poem
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun An extended orchestral composition, typically in one movement, that is based on a non-musical source such as a poem, story, legend, or painting. It is a programmatic work intended to evoke images or convey a narrative.
Usage
The term "symphonic poem" is used to describe a specific genre of orchestral music from the Romantic period. It is a piece for orchestra, not a literal poem set to music. * Franz Liszt is credited with inventing the symphonic poem. * The composer's most famous work is a symphonic poem inspired by a Nordic legend. * In the concert, the orchestra will perform a symphonic poem depicting a storm at sea.
Advanced Usage
- As a programmatic form: The symphonic poem is a cornerstone of program music, where the music tells a story or paints a scene.
- The symphonic poem "The Sorcerer's Apprentice" vividly illustrates the story of the magical broom.
- Structural freedom: Unlike a symphony, a symphonic poem does not follow a strict classical form (like sonata form) but is structured freely to follow its literary or pictorial program.
Variants and Related Words
- Tone poem: This is a direct synonym for symphonic poem. The terms are often used interchangeably.
- Richard Strauss preferred the term "tone poem" for his works like "Also sprach Zarathustra".
- Program music: This is the broader category of instrumental music that aims to render an extra-musical narrative. The symphonic poem is a major type of program music.
- Concert overture: A shorter, single-movement orchestral work that is also programmatic but is often in a more traditional sonata form.
Synonyms
- Tone poem
- Programmatic composition
Related Concepts (Not Phrasal Verbs or Idioms)
- Program music: Music intended to evoke images or tell a story outside of itself.
- Orchestration: The technique of writing for an orchestra, which is central to the color and effect of a symphonic poem.
- Leitmotif: A recurring musical theme associated with a particular person, idea, or situation, often used in symphonic poems (e.g., in the works of Richard Strauss).
Noun
- an orchestral composition based on literature or folk tales