This is a rather simple adaptation and modification of the famous work by Antonio Vivaldi.

The original is in e minor and performed at a very slow tempo, whereas this adaptation is in C Major and set at a faster pace.

The addition of the harp punctuates the base and adds "sparkle" to the melody.

"The Four Seasons" is set in four movements, each with three sections, and those alternating with some version of fast-slow-fast.

Spring is the first, and this is the Largo—the middle section.

Rather revolutionary for its time, Vivaldi wanted the listener to know what the music was about and inserted little clues within the score, such as "barking dog" "goatherd" "singing birds," etc.

In addition, he also published sonnets to accompany the music—thought to have been written by the composer. In later eras, the term "program music" was used as the works became more complicated and extended. Haydn's "The Creation" (Die Schöpfung) oratorio is rather specific in its depiction of the creation of the world, based on scripture. The concept "program music" flourished in the 19th century and, in its own way, the accompanying or background music to ballet and movies are more examples.

Vanessa McClintock
January 2023