Symphony No. 3
William Schuman
Work background
Researched classical background
William Schuman divides his Third Symphony into two large parts, each pairing older formal types: Passacaglia and Fugue, then Chorale and Toccata. The historical names describe methods that he recasts for a modern orchestra. Long lines and imitative writing accumulate into rhythmically active passages. Serge Koussevitzky led its premiere with the Boston Symphony Orchestra.
A listening guide
Follow the shift from the sustained Chorale to the driving Toccata.
Listening suggestions are editorial guides to the music.
Forces: Orchestra
Composition: 1941
This entry describes the musical work or cycle. Composition, premiere and publication dates describe different events. Performers and recordings can be explored through the external listening search.
Date, title and version notes
Composer is William Schuman, distinct from Robert Schumann.
American Symphony Orchestra: William Schuman Third Symphony
1941 composition and two-part formal design | Reviewed 2026-10-19
Sources for this work
American Symphony Orchestra: William Schuman Third Symphony
1941 composition and two-part formal design | Reviewed 2026-10-19
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