Beethoven’s First Symphony

A great classic for intermediate-level orchestra! Ludwig van Beethoven first performed the Symphony No. 1 in C Major, Op. 21 at the Royal Imperial Theater in Vienna on April 2, 1800. The Second Movement is loosely reminiscent of the slow movement of Mozart’s Symphony No. 40 in G Minor. But, to use the term “Mozartian” is to judge the work superficially. The movement begins to stir restlessly as it progresses. It is one of Beethoven’s most singable and lyrical movements. (7:38)