Symphony No. 3 in A Minor

Rachmaninoff’s Symphony No. 3 is music of yearning and fond memories of a lost homeland. Most of his works were composed in Russia, before he left the country in 1917 in the wake of the revolution. Symphony No. 3 dates from 1935-36, when he was living in the West. His first two symphonies were grand affairs, expansive and passionate. The Third is just as melodic, but more reserved and on a smaller scale. The style is still Russian, but the references to Orthodox chant and folk dances are often interrupted by more reticent and wistful ideas. It opens with a distant-sounding chant theme, a motto that recurs in every movement. Elegant, flowing melodies follow, often supported by clear, refined orchestral textures. The Third Symphony is in three movements rather than four, and the second combines elements of slow movement and scherzo. The music is delicate, from the dreamy horn solo at the opening to the reflective woodwind solos that follow. The central scherzo section is colourful and rhythmic. The final movement opens with a lively dance theme, then moves through a variety of moods and textures. The “Dies Irae” chant from the Requiem Mass, a favourite theme for Rachmaninoff, becomes increasingly prominent. Despite its connotations, the theme leads into a bright and playful climax, the composer’s dark thoughts now forgotten.