Beethoven’s First Symphony, though rooted in the classical examples of Haydn and Mozart, was nothing less than a turning point in the symphonic tradition. It can be seen as a fitting farewell to the eighteenth century, and as an exploration of new horizons by the young composer.
The Fifth Symphony, however, is the ultimate proof of Beethoven’s immortality. For who does not know the world-famous theme?
According to his friend and first biographer Anton Schindler, these first bars signify fate knocking at the door. He records that the composer told him: ‘I will grasp fate by the throat’…
The performers are the members of the Budapest Festival Orchestra conducted by Ivan Fischer.
Here is a complete performance of the Symphony #5 by Beethoven:
