We have a collection of 15 arrangements for Ludwig van Beethoven - Symphony No.7, Op.92
Why is Beethoven's Symphony No.7 often called the "Apotheosis of Dance"? Learn!
Here are some interesting facts about Ludwig van Beethoven's Symphony No. 7 in A major, Op. 92:
Premiere: Beethoven's Symphony No. 7 premiered on December 8, 1813, at a charity concert in Vienna for soldiers wounded in the Battle of Hanau. The concert was a huge success and raised a significant amount of money for the wounded soldiers.
Dedication: Beethoven dedicated the Symphony No. 7 to Count Moritz von Fries, a patron and friend who supported Beethoven financially and emotionally during his career. Beethoven often dedicated his works to nobility and aristocrats who provided him with patronage.
Unconventional Second Movement: The second movement, Allegretto, is one of the most famous parts of Symphony No. 7. It is a solemn and poignant piece of music and is often performed independently from the rest of the symphony. Beethoven himself described it as "the most excellent I have composed."
Energetic Rhythm: The Symphony No. 7 is known for its rhythmic vitality and energy. Beethoven maintains a persistent and driving rhythm throughout the symphony, which contributes to its sense of urgency and excitement.
Countenance of a Dance: Beethoven once referred to the Symphony No. 7 as "the apotheosis of the dance." This is because the symphony is filled with lively and dance-like rhythms, especially in the final movement, which is marked Allegro con brio (with spirit and vigor).
Influence on Wagner: The composer Richard Wagner praised Beethoven's Symphony No. 7 for its extraordinary power and called it the "apotheosis of the dance." Wagner's enthusiasm for the symphony reflects its lasting impact on later generations of composers.
Instrumentation: Beethoven's Symphony No. 7 is scored for a typical Classical orchestra, including strings, woodwinds, brass, and timpani. However, Beethoven expands the role of the timpani, giving them a more prominent and rhythmically vital part in the symphony.
Performance Duration: A typical performance of Symphony No. 7 usually lasts around 35 to 40 minutes, making it one of Beethoven's shorter symphonies. However, its brevity is compensated by its intense and powerful character.
Reception: The premiere of Symphony No. 7 was a great success, with the audience demanding an immediate encore of the Allegretto movement. The symphony has continued to be highly regarded by both audiences and musicians ever since.
Nazi Use: The second movement, Allegretto, gained a somewhat controversial association during the Nazi regime in Germany. The piece was often used in propaganda films and events to evoke a sense of heroism and nationalistic pride. However, the symphony itself remains a masterpiece of classical music, regardless of its historical associations.
Beethoven's Symphony No. 7 stands as a testament to the composer's innovation, creativity, and ability to evoke a wide range of emotions through his music.