Indian Suite

The Indian Suite for orchestra was composed in 1892 by Edward MacDowell.

The composer's second suite for orchestra, it was first performed in New York City by the Boston Symphony on January 23, 1896.

The piece is based upon numerous American Indian melodies and rhythms.

The fourth movement, "Dirge," is a threnody introduced by the tolling of bells.

The fifth and last movement, "Village," is based upon two Iroquois melodies, one in the plucked strings and one played by flute and piccolo accompanied by strings and woodwinds.

Indian Suite Opus 48 by Edward MacDowell American Recording Society ARS-3 front
Indian Suite Opus 48 by Edward MacDowell American Recording Society ARS-3 back cover LP