Prout, Ebenezer - Symphony No.3, Op.22 (1885)

[Reverie]

Prout's four symphonies, composed between 1873 and 1886, were all performed at the Crystal Palace and are startling for their conservatism at the time, although their style is typical of Prout as a whole. 

Apparently he took Raff to task for putting the second subject of the opening movement of the Im Walde Symphony in the sub dominant instead of the more conventional dominant key. This comment speaks volumes I feel. 

See this previous post: https://www.unsungcomposers.com/forum/index.php/topic,263.msg9481.html#msg9481

SYMPHONY No.3, Op.22 (1885)

LINK:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Watz9DyE68U


The slow introduction to the 1st mov is, I think, actually the best piece of writing in the whole symphony. It has a measured grandeur in it's melodic shape and phrasing. Wonderful stuff from 1:20

[Alan Howe]

This is very helpful, Martin. Many thanks! Reactions forthcoming...

[Alan Howe]

I agree about the opening slow introduction, but what follows has little of melodic or thematic interest. There's energy, but where's it all going? More anon...

[Mark Thomas]

Thanks again, Martin. It's all very retro and safe for 1885.

[Alan Howe]

What (just about) saves the work is its sheer energy. Prout certainly can't be accused of hanging round, can he? Whatever we might think of this highly academic-sounding music, it's good to be able to hear it. And, for all his faults, he's part of our musical  history, so I for one am grateful for the opportunity afforded by Martin's excellent reconstruction work. Thank you!

[FBerwald]

All the while, I was listening to this, I was thinking that however fine the music is, it might benefit from a commercial recording with an actual orchestra.

[Alan Howe]

Well, I imagine Martin might agree. However, I think the chances are very remote, so I for one am exceedingly grateful for what we have here.