Beethoven Symphony Nr 6

Artistic Director's Notes

This symphony, also known at the "Pastoral" Symphony was completed in 1808, and first performed in Vienna, along with his 5th Symphony, on the 22nd December 1808. I have some sympathy for the audience for this concert, as the reports show that it went for 4 hours...

This Symphony is a rarity in Beethoven's output as it follows a well defined program.

The movements are labeled (originally in German, of course):

I Awakenings of cheerful feelings on arrival in the countryside

II Scene by the Brook

III Merry gathering of Country Folk

IV Thunder, Storm

V Shepherds Song.Cheerful and thankful feelings after the storm.