A Technical Essay on the Composition Techniques used in Sibelius Symphony 2

The second symphony written by composer Jean Sibelius {1865-1957} is one of the best examples in classical music of advanced compositional techniques such as melodic variation, tonal transitions, imitation, and suspension. Written in basic four-movement form (Allegretto, Tempo Andante/ma rubato, Vivacissimo, and Finale), Symphony #2 provides the listener with a fluidity of motion, which constantly engages the ear. The first movement in Sibelius Symphony #2 is written in the key of D major, uses A-B-A form, …

…utilized in making chord transitions and suspensions. The second B section (B^1) is also very similar to B except that the horns are used to build up to bridge material. The Bridge material added to section B^1 is a succession of ascending and descending chromatic patterns in the woodwinds and strings used to support the entrance of the horns, trombones, and trumpets which make the transition from G Flat Major to D Major for Finale.