Beethoven 4 & 5: Surprise & Destiny

We begin our exploration of Beethoven as Innovator with his Fourth Symphony. Light, lyrical, and witty, No. 4 is a bright contrast amid the composer’s stormy middle period. Next, we shift from unexpected grace to the inevitable power of his Fifth Symphony. From the instantly recognizable opening four notes, the “Fate motif,” journey with the orchestra from struggle to triumph, with innovations in form and orchestration along the way.