- Indian Suite
The "Indian Suite" for
orchestra was composed in1892 byEdward MacDowell . The composer's second suite for orchestra, it was first performed inNew York City by theBoston Symphony on January 23, 1896. The piece is based upon numerous American Indian melodies and rhythms.The suite is in five movements. The first, "Legend," is built upon two themes, both for horns. The second, "Love Song," is derived from a love song of the
Iowa tribe . The third movement is titled "War Times" and is martial in character. The fourth movement, "Dirge," is athrenody introduced by the tolling of bells. The fifth and last movement, "Village," is based upon twoIroquois melodies, one in the plucked strings and one played byflute andpiccolo accompanied by strings andwoodwind s.A recording of the suite exists; it is distributed by the
Naxos Records label.References
*David Ewen, "Encyclopedia of Concert Music". New York; Hill and Wang, 1959.
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