Composed in 1942, Barber's Second Essay is a masterwork of concentrated musical drama with a richness of texture comprised of highly charged and succinctly organized musical modules. The opening theme has a definite American flavor. This is followed by a fugal section evolving from simple tonal patterns to polytonality. After an intensely rhythmic third section, all elements are combined in a huge climax and coda which rounds off the work. Expertly transcribed by Dr. George Schneider, this is certain to find its place in the standard repertoire for mature ensembles. Dur: 11:00 (Grade 5)