A Stylistic and Performance Analysis of Symphonia Elegiaca, op. 83 by Camil Van Hulse

Abstract

This document provides an analysis of the second organ symphony of Camil Van Hulse: Symphonia Elegiaca, op. 83. This analysis provides a historical overview, an examination of programmatic content, and a compositional analysis of each of the five movements of Symphonia Elegiaca. Additionally, a biography of Camil Van Hulse and a chronological catalog of his published compositions for solo organ are included.

Chapter One defines the purpose, need, limitations, organization of the study, and provides a summary of related literature on Camil Van Hulse’s organ symphonies, including biographical materials relating to Van Hulse and literature related to the organ symphony. Chapter Two provides a biographical sketch of Camil Van Hulse, detailing his life and notable achievements. Chapter Three provides historical context related to Symphonia Elegiaca. Chapters Four, Five, Six, Seven, and Eight contain an analysis of each of the five movements of Symphonia Elegiaca, op. 83. Each chapter provides a historical overview and a compositional analysis. Chapter Nine is a conclusion and summary of the findings of this study. By exploring Symphonia Elegiaca by Camil Van Hulse, this study recognizes the significance of Van Hulse’s contributions to the organ repertoire and musical life in the United States and Belgium.