Symphony No 2

The symphony is composed of four movements:

I. Largo – Allegro moderato
The symphony opens with a slow introduction in E minor, establishing a somber atmosphere with a dark, chant-like theme in the lower strings and clarinets. This idea functions as a germinal motif that recurs throughout the work. The Allegro moderato unfolds in traditional sonata form. The first theme is passionate and stormy, introduced by the full orchestra with sweeping phrases and a brooding Romantic character. The second theme, in G major, is lyrical and expansive—delivered tenderly by the violins over rich accompaniment, revealing Rachmaninoff’s gift for long-breathed melodies. The development is emotionally intense and harmonically adventurous, incorporating cyclical material from the introduction. A grand recapitulation leads to a poignant, reflective coda that reaffirms the opening mood.

II. Allegro molto
The second movement is a scherzo in A minor, infused with rhythmic drive and bold contrasts. The movement opens with a brisk, energetic motif propelled by offbeat accents and rapid string passages. The theme is derived from the Dies Irae chant—a Rachmaninoff signature—disguised in rhythmic transformation. The trio section, in C major, introduces a smoother, more lyrical theme in the clarinets and horns, but even this is infused with rhythmic unease. The return of the scherzo intensifies the movement’s volatility. The orchestration is vivid and percussive, creating a sense of unstable momentum. A short fugal passage and dynamic layering add complexity, while the final bars erupt with force.

III. Adagio
This slow movement, in A major, is the emotional core of the symphony—a lush, romantic arch-form movement in ternary (ABA) structure. The main theme is introduced by a soaring clarinet solo, set over sustained strings—a melody of aching beauty and warmth. This theme becomes the basis for an expansive dialogue among winds, strings, and harp, weaving textures of deep emotional resonance. The central section intensifies into a passionate climax, exploring variations of the main theme. Rachmaninoff employs chromatic harmonies and contrapuntal layering to sustain long emotional arcs. The return of the clarinet theme is more introspective, fading into an ethereal close that suspends time.

IV. Allegro vivace
The finale is in a modified sonata-rondo form, beginning in E major—transforming the symphony’s original tragic key into a tone of radiant triumph. The main theme is rhythmically vigorous and dance-like, full of celebratory momentum. The second theme, lyrical and flowing, reaffirms Rachmaninoff’s melodic richness. Elements from earlier movements—particularly the chant-like motif from the first movement—reappear and are reconciled. The development section blends bravura orchestration with structural clarity, leading into a powerful recapitulation and a majestic coda. The symphony ends in a blazing affirmation, with full orchestra proclaiming victory in E major.

Main Themes:

First Movement (Largo – Allegro moderato)
Introduction: A slow, chant-like motif in E minor, creating a liturgical, meditative atmosphere.

Main Theme: A turbulent, sweeping melody in E minor, emotionally intense and dynamically flexible.

Second Theme: A lyrical, arching melody in G major, contrasting warmth against the drama.

Development: Elaborates both themes with chromatic harmonies and intricate orchestration.

Coda: Quiet and unresolved, recalling the brooding mood of the introduction.

Second Movement (Allegro molto)
Scherzo Theme: Sharp, rhythmic motive with offbeat accents; recalls the Dies Irae subtly.

Trio Theme: A gentle, lyrical interlude with woodwinds and harp, tinged with unease.

Return: Escalates energy with aggressive rhythms and fugal counterpoint.

Third Movement (Adagio)
Main Theme: Clarinet solo over string harmonies; one of Rachmaninoff’s most iconic melodies.

Climactic Section: Full orchestra variations develop the theme with rich harmonic coloration.

Return: A tender recollection of the theme, now softened and more introspective.

Fourth Movement (Allegro vivace)
Main Theme: Exuberant and rhythmic, in E major, representing resolution and vitality.

Second Theme: Flowing and lyrical, reminiscent of earlier melodic material.

Development: Revisits thematic fragments from previous movements, culminating in synthesis.

Coda: Triumphant and radiant, the symphony ends in blazing affirmation.