Florence B. Price’s Symphony No. 3, composed in 1940, is a significant contribution to American classical music and stands as a testament to her remarkable skill in merging diverse musical influences. Born in 1887, Price faced racial and gender barriers but went on to become the first African American woman to have a composition performed by a major American orchestra.
Symphony No. 3 is a compelling orchestral work that exemplifies Price’s ability to blend traditional Western classical forms with distinctively African American musical idioms. The symphony unfolds in four movements, each characterized by its thematic richness, rhythmic vitality, and poignant melodies. In the first movement, a robust and energetic theme sets the tone, while the second movement introduces a lyrical and expressive character. The third movement, a lively scherzo, showcases Price’s rhythmic inventiveness, and the final movement concludes with a triumphant resolution. Symphony No. 3 is a testament to Price’s mastery in navigating complex orchestral textures, utilizing folk elements, and crafting a distinctive voice that resonates with both depth and emotion. As an important figure in the history of American classical music, Florence B. Price’s Symphony No. 3 remains a powerful example of her enduring impact and artistic vision.
Composer biography:
The Listening Project Blog 