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- Samuel Barber
Adagio for Strings (for string orchestra) (1938)
- G Schirmer Inc (World)
- str
- 8 min
- 19th June 2025, KoncertKirken, Copenhagen, Denmark
- 6th March 2026, Liederhalle, Stuttgart, Germany
Programme Note
Samuel Barber's musical potential was recognized at an early age and cultivated with lessons in piano, voice, and composition. These led to studies at the Curtis Institute, two subsequent years in Italy upon winning the 1935 Prix de Rome, and a steady succession of commissions, appointments, and awards.
While much of Barber's recognition stems from his works for voice, his most famous composition remains the Adagio for Strings, transcribed for string orchestra from the second movement of his String Quartet.
Premiered in 1938 by the NBC Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Arturo Toscanini, Adagio for Strings soon became Barber's most-performed piece. His characteristic melodic ease is shown in serene simplicity as the work progresses through almost reverent material to its lush, graceful climax.
While much of Barber's recognition stems from his works for voice, his most famous composition remains the Adagio for Strings, transcribed for string orchestra from the second movement of his String Quartet.
Premiered in 1938 by the NBC Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Arturo Toscanini, Adagio for Strings soon became Barber's most-performed piece. His characteristic melodic ease is shown in serene simplicity as the work progresses through almost reverent material to its lush, graceful climax.
Media
Adagio for Strings, Op. 11
Features
- Catalogue Classics: Samuel Barber – Adagio for Strings
- Adagio for Strings by Samuel Barber is one of the best-known and most beloved concert works of all time. We present a selection of suitable programming partnerships.
Discography
- LabelNaxos
- Catalogue NumberNaxos 8.559147
- ConductorMarin Alsop
- EnsembleRoyal Scottish National Orchestra
- LabelEMI
- Catalogue NumberEMI TOCE-6067
- ConductorLeonard Slatkin
- EnsembleSaint Louis Symphony Orchestra
- LabelStradivari Classics
- Catalogue NumberStradivari Classics SCD 8012