Symphony No. 2 (Op. 13, No. 2) in D major was first published in 1872. Whether in its original (1872) or revised version (1901 and after), it could easily be called “Pastoral Symphony”. The evocative character of the “Pastorale” (II), of the “Scherzo” (IV) with its “hunting” theme in the primitive version, or even of the “Salve Regina” (IV) in the revised versions could indeed justify such a nickname.

Widor’s symphonies have undergone frequent revisions throughout the composer’s life. Hence, The first four symphonies (Op. 13), all published in 1872, were subject to numerous subsequent editions (1879, 1887, 1888-1892, 1900-1901, 1911, 1920, 1928-1929…).

It is the latest edited version which is rendered here (Leduc ~1929). However, it was interesting to also pay attention to earlier editions. For example, the prelude went through many revisions. The 1901 edition showed an even more noticeable change, as the initial scherzo (fourth movement) was replaced by the “Salve Regina” a fantasy based on the famous Gregorian chant. This change was consistent with a more general inflexion in Widor’s style. For their musical interest, we edited and appended a selection of alternate movements and versions from earlier editions (1872, 1887, 1901).

Content/Inhalt:

p. 2 : I – Præludium circulare
p. 5 : II – Pastorale
p. 8 : III – Andante
p. 13 : IV – Salve Regina
p. 16 : V – Adagio
p. 19 : VI – Finale
Earlier and alternate movements:
p. 22 : Appendix 1 – [I] – Prélude (Ed. 1872)
p. 24 : Appendix 2 – I – Prélude (Ed. 1887)
p. 24 : Appendix 3 – I – Præludium circulare (Ed. 1901)
p. 26 : Appendix 4 – III – Andante (Ed. 1901)
p. 32 : Appendix 5 – IV – Scherzo (Ed. 1887)
p. 35 : Appendix 6 – [V] – Adagio (Ed. 1872)
p. 36 : Appendix 7 – V – Adagio (Ed. 1887)