After emigrating from Russia, Rachmaninoff's focus shifted from composition to piano performance, resulting in only six new opus numbers in his last 25 years.
Compositional Technique
Unlike his first two symphonies, Rachmaninoff's Third Symphony has only three movements, with a scherzo incorporated into the central Adagio.
Critical Reception
Rachmaninoff's Third Symphony premiered in 1936 with the Philadelphia Orchestra under Leopold Stokowski and was received 'sourly', according to the composer.
Historical Context
Rachmaninoff and his family were compelled to emigrate from Russia in 1917 due to the October Revolution, which also led to the destruction of his country estate at Ivanovka.
Composition History
Rachmaninoff composed his Third Symphony at his villa, Senar, in Switzerland, a name combining 'Serge' and 'Natalya' (his wife).
Historical Context
During the early 1930s, Rachmaninoff's music was officially banned in the Soviet Union due to his emigration and anti-Soviet statements, though some performers continued to play it.
Composer Biography
Rachmaninoff, who was a composer, pianist, and conductor, considered himself first and foremost a composer.
You might also enjoy...
Diepenbrock: Orchestral Works, Vol. 2
Richard Strauss: Don Quixote & Selected Songs
English Orchestral Songs
Lutosławski: Vocal works
Bridge: Orchestral Works, Vol. 6
Grieg: Symphonic Dances, Six Songs for Voice and Orchestra & Sigurd Jorsalfar Suite
Grieg: Symphonic Dances / 6 Orchestral Songs
Zemlinsky: Sämtliche Orchesterlieder
Britten: Les Illuminations. Serenade. Nocturne
Britten: Les Illuminations, Serenade, Nocturne, Noye's Fludde
