The Form of William Grant Still's Afro-American Symphony

William Grant Still’s Afro-American Symphony is a significant composition in the classical music repertoire, known for its incorporation of African American musical elements and themes. The symphony, also known as Symphony No. 1, was composed in 1930 and holds the distinction of being the first symphony by a Black American composer to be performed by a major American orchestra.

Moderato assai (Longing)

The first movement of the Afro-American Symphony, titled “Longing,” is loosely cast in sonata form. It opens with a Moderato assai tempo, establishing a contemplative mood. The movement features a twelve-bar blues progression, a characteristic element of African American musical traditions. It introduces two main themes, with the first theme played by the trumpet and the second theme played by the oboe.

Adagio (Sorrow)

The second movement, titled “Sorrow,” is a slow and reflective Adagio. It is influenced by spiritual music styles and conveys a sense of deep emotion. The movement incorporates related themes from the first movement but employs less functional chord progressions. It exhibits a more chromatic character and includes an epigraph from the poem “W’en I Gits Home.”

Animato (Humor)

The third movement, titled “Humor,” is characterized by its lively and spirited nature. It is set in A-flat major, establishing a distinct tonal center. The movement features two major themes, each with two variations. Notably, the horns contribute a counter-melody that bears resemblance to George Gershwin’s “I Got Rhythm.” The vibrant and rhythmic qualities of this movement reflect the influence of African American musical traditions.

Lento, con risoluzione (Aspiration)

The fourth and final movement, titled “Aspiration,” begins with a hymn-like section that invokes a sense of reverence. It continues in a modal fashion, incorporating melodic and harmonic elements characteristic of African American music. The movement concludes with an upbeat and lively finale, conveying a sense of resolution and optimism. It avoids traditional progressions and includes an epigraph from the poem “Ode to Ethiopia.”

William Grant Still’s Afro-American Symphony is a testament to the composer’s ability to infuse classical symphonic structure with the rich musical heritage of African American culture. By incorporating blues progressions, spiritual influences, and elements of African American folk music, Still created a work that celebrates the African American experience and contributes to the diverse tapestry of American classical music.

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FAQs

What is the form of William Grant Still’s Afro-American Symphony?

The Afro-American Symphony is structured in a four-movement form, following a traditional symphonic structure.

What are the titles of the four movements in the Afro-American Symphony?

The four movements of the Afro-American Symphony are:

Moderato assai (Longing)
Adagio (Sorrow)
Animato (Humor)
Lento, con risoluzione (Aspiration)

How does the first movement, “Longing,” relate to sonata form?

The first movement of the Afro-American Symphony, “Longing,” is loosely cast in sonata form. It incorporates two main themes, with the first theme played by the trumpet and the second theme played by the oboe.

What musical elements characterize the second movement, “Sorrow”?

The second movement, “Sorrow,” is influenced by spiritual music styles. It contains related themes from the first movement but employs less functional chord progressions. The movement is more chromatic and features an epigraph from the poem “W’en I Gits Home.”

How is the third movement, “Humor,” characterized?

The third movement, “Humor,” is characterized by its lively and spirited nature. It is set in A-flat major and features two major themes, each with two variations. The movement includes a counter-melody in the horns resembling Gershwin’s “I Got Rhythm.”

What distinguishes the fourth movement, “Aspiration,” in the Afro-American Symphony?

The fourth movement, “Aspiration,” begins with a hymn-like section and continues in a modal fashion. It concludes with an upbeat and lively finale. The movement avoids traditional progressions and includes an epigraph from the poem “Ode to Ethiopia.”

How does William Grant Still blend African American musical elements with classical symphonic structure in the Afro-American Symphony?

William Grant Still incorporates African American musical elements such as blues progressions, spiritual influences, and elements of African American folk music within the framework of a traditional symphonic structure. This fusion creates a unique and culturally significant work.

What is the significance of the Afro-American Symphony in classical music history?

The Afro-American Symphony holds historical significance as the first symphony composed by a Black American composer to be performed by a major American orchestra. It represents a milestone in the recognition and celebration of African American contributions to classical music.