Fact: Symphony for Whales and Orchestra

Fact: Alan Hovhaness was an American composer of Armenian descent (1911-2000). He was a composer during the contemporary period of classical music and is considered to be one of the most prolific composers of the 20th century. His works spanned suites, concertos, trios, film scores, choral music, symphonies, and more. One of his most unique works, in my opinion at least, is a piece entitled, "And God Created Great Whales." The piece is written for an orchestra with recorded whale songs. The effect is haunting and beautiful. Listen for parts where the instruments mimic the sound of the whale songs (for instance, the trombones at 5:30 and the strings at 7:35). Seeing as I'm something of an aspiring marine biologist plus a musician, what's not to love?

Part 1

Part 2