Abstract:
This symphony is a one-movement hybrid form for standard symphony orchestra. The
dedication, “For Jean,” indicates the two main sources of material for the piece. The music of
Jean Sibelius was particularly influential on my development as a composer. This symphony
pays homage to him, and references his Fourth and Seventh Symphonies. The other part of the
dedication is for Jean Jones, my grandmother. Her favorite hymn, “How Great Thou Art,” is the
source for most of the melodic material. The hymn tune is also set as the finale of the piece. This
piece is meant to contribute to the symphonic tradition. It has elements drawn from past works in
the genre, such as the form, and more modern features, such as the atypical octatonic scale found
within. Along with the symphony, a paper discusses the inspiration and compositional method of
the piece. It explains the development and use of the four-in-one symphonic form, melodic
integration, and the “Phrygian-octatonic” scale.
