1.
Mahler Symphony No. 9 in D Major
If you've never heard Mahler's Symphony No. 9, grab a blanket,
sit by the fire, and melt into the lush orchestration Mahler so
masterfully created. Mahler wrote this symphony knowing that the end of
his life was near. Some believe the fourth movement represents the five
psychological stages of death: denial and isolation, anger, bargaining,
depression, and acceptance. Mahler undoubtedly fits the romantic style
to the "t"; heart-wrenching tension followed by ever-so-sweet resolve.
Learn more about the life of Mahler in this Mahler profile.
2.
Haydn Symphony No. 34 in d minor
One of Haydn's lesser known works, this flawless piece from
the classical period is perfectly balanced with emotion and art. The
first movement melodies float above rivers of low tones. The upbeat
rhythms of the second movement are sure to make you dance; it's any
Haydn lover's "pop" music. The third movement menuetto brings images of
courtly balls and high tea. The final movement expertly brings closure
to the symphony and sends the audience home happy and content. Learn
more about Haydn in this Haydn profile.
3.
Beethoven Symphony No. 5 in c minor
Although a bit overplayed, something this good should not be
excluded. Everyone knows the first movement when they hear it, as for
the following movements, that's another story. The second movement is
not as "heavy" as the first making it an excellent relief without losing
its harmonic brilliance. The third movement includes similar rhythmic
patterns as the first which creates a continuity. The triumphant
orchestration in the forth movement concludes the symphony in absolute
victory. Learn more about the life of Beethoven in this Beethoven profile
4.
Mozart Symphony No. 25 in g minor
Also a lesser known work, this Mozart symphony combines
classical form with Mozart's flamboyant expressions. The first movement,
although expressive, maintains a lightness in the sound. The
orchestration in the second movement gives its pastoral sound. The third
movement opens with a unison melody
which remains throughout its entirety. The finale gives you the feeling
of being "rushed"...only in a good way. This symphony is a must have
for those who love Mozart. Learn more about the life of Mozart in this Mozart profile.
5.
Barber Symphony No. 1 in G Major
Samuel Barber, a 20th century American composer, wrote this
symphony in 1936. Its orchestration is similar to that of Mahler's 9th,
and its complex chords and layered instrumentation gives chills down
your spine. This symphony is a great addition to any symphony
collection.
6.
Haydn Symphony No. 94 in G Major
Haydn skillfully creates another thoroughly enjoyable
symphony, the "Surprise" Symphony. It comes from the original German
nickname "Paukenschlag" meaning bass base drum impact. The first
movement's soft melodies and lifting harmonies may possibly put one to
sleep. Haydn, knowing this, created a simple melody followed by a large
"impact" in the second movement to wake those who fell asleep. The third
and fourth movements provide a delightful ending to this classical
symphony.
7.
Dvorak Symphony No. 9 in e minor
Dvorak created this symphony in 1893. It's hard to believe
something that can sound this modern is over 100 years old. Dvorak
composed the symphony in the spirit of the folklore African Americans
and American Indians after coming to America. He achieved his greatest
success at the world premier of this symphony with the New York
Philharmonic on American soil. Learn more about the life of Dvorak in
this Dvorak profile.
8.
Ives Symphony No. 1 in d minor
Ives wrote this symphony after being influenced by Dvorak
Symphony No. 9 (mvmt. 2), Beethoven Symphony No. 9 (mvmt. 3), Schubert's
"Unfinished" symphony (mvmt. 1), and Tchaikovsky’s "Pathétique" (mvmt.
4). He clearly had good taste! It is interesting to see how one person
can interpret all of these symphonies and put them into "his own words".
This symphony is a must have for any collection.
9.
Brahms Symphony No. 2 in D Major
Brahms was heavily influenced by Beethoven. This symphony,
although not widely successful, was most significant after Schumann. It
follows the "regular" four movement structure as most symphonies do. Its
richness in orchestration lies between Beethoven and Mahler. In the
first movement, Brahms presents three different motifs simultaneously as
the main theme. The fourth movement has a flavor of the final movement
in Beethoven's 9th Symphony. Learn more about Brahms in this Brahms profile.
10.
Beethoven Symphony No. 9 in d minor
Last but not least, there is Beethoven's ninth symphony. Possibly
Beethoven's greatest work, almost everyone knows the "Ode to Joy"
chorus of the final movement. Beethoven took the symphony to a new level
by adding choir to the orchestration. The text in the final movement
was from Schiller's "An die Freude". Any symphonic library isn't
complete until there is a recording of this symphony. Its wide range of
dynamics and orchestration provides hours of enjoyment.
Aaron Green, source
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