Initial Reactions Beethoven’s Symphony No 5 Mvmt I opens up with the breathtaking notes. The sounds almost made me to feel as if I am in the middle of the storm. At the same time, I could see why this symphony is known as ‘The Destiny.’ The majestic and yet somewhat tragic theme sounds as if the coming of the unavoidable tragic fate. On the other hand, the receiving gentle melody comforts as if telling the hope is still there behind that.
This work is also known as the one composed while Beethoven was losing his hearing. To the musician like Beethoven, it must be very critical and scary. Yet, he overcame his illness and composed many works even after this. In my own view, the Symphony No 5 is very similar to the life of Beethoven: …show more content…
This will be further discussed later but it is true that his work has characteristics of both Neoclassical era (Baroque and Rococo) and Romantic era.
For instance, the Symphony No.5 is in four movements and each movement follows the structure of beginning – elaboration – bridge – recapitulation. Elaborating with balance, order, and structural clarity is one of the characteristics of classical music. Also the use of various instruments and emphasis on counterpoint and polyphonic texture are the characteristics of classical music. (MindEdge & Symphony)
The Symphony No 5 was composed during the time of Napoleon, when he was conquering the European nations. Because this work was dedicated to Prince Lobkowitz of Vienna and Count Rasumovsky of Russia, some people says Beethoven composed this work in hope of European nations’ victory and the fall of Napoleon. Whether this is true or not, Symphony No 5 broke the traditional structure of symphony by using trombones, piccolo, and contrabassoon, which later became the characteristic of symphonies in Romantic Period. The passionate heroic theme also characterizes the Romantic Period music. (MindEdge &
This work is also known as the one composed while Beethoven was losing his hearing. To the musician like Beethoven, it must be very critical and scary. Yet, he overcame his illness and composed many works even after this. In my own view, the Symphony No 5 is very similar to the life of Beethoven: …show more content…
This will be further discussed later but it is true that his work has characteristics of both Neoclassical era (Baroque and Rococo) and Romantic era.
For instance, the Symphony No.5 is in four movements and each movement follows the structure of beginning – elaboration – bridge – recapitulation. Elaborating with balance, order, and structural clarity is one of the characteristics of classical music. Also the use of various instruments and emphasis on counterpoint and polyphonic texture are the characteristics of classical music. (MindEdge & Symphony)
The Symphony No 5 was composed during the time of Napoleon, when he was conquering the European nations. Because this work was dedicated to Prince Lobkowitz of Vienna and Count Rasumovsky of Russia, some people says Beethoven composed this work in hope of European nations’ victory and the fall of Napoleon. Whether this is true or not, Symphony No 5 broke the traditional structure of symphony by using trombones, piccolo, and contrabassoon, which later became the characteristic of symphonies in Romantic Period. The passionate heroic theme also characterizes the Romantic Period music. (MindEdge &