Beethoven | Symphony No. 7
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Beethoven, Ludwig van | Symphony No. 7, Op. 92 (1812)
Recording: Herbert von Karajan conducting the Berlin Philharmonic (1977)
Beethoven's Symphony No. 7 in A major, Op. 92, composed between 1811 and 1812, is a celebrated four-movement symphony that Beethoven himself regarded as one of his best works. Premiering on December 8, 1813, in Vienna, it was dedicated to Count Moritz von Fries. Notable for its rhythmic vitality and dance-like qualities, the symphony's second movement, "Allegretto," became immensely popular and is often performed separately. Its premiere, part of a charity concert for wounded soldiers, featured a lineup of prominent musicians of the time. The symphony is renowned for its use of rhythmic devices suggestive of a dance and subtle tonal shifts, providing a unique symphonic experience.
