Schubert's Symphony No. 9 in C Major, D. 944 'The Great'

Definition

Schubert's Symphony No. 9, often referred to as 'The Great', is a symphonic work completed in 1828 that showcases the composer's lyrical style and innovative orchestration. It is noted for its expansive form, rich harmonic language, and thematic development, which connect it to the concept of sonata form variations, allowing for a deeper exploration of themes and motifs throughout the piece.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Schubert's Symphony No. 9 was composed in the last year of his life, marking it as one of his final major orchestral works.
2. The symphony is structured in four movements, with the first movement lasting over 15 minutes, showcasing Schubert's ability to develop themes extensively.
3. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Schubert employed a unique blend of Classical and emerging Romantic styles, reflecting both tradition and innovation.
4. The work is often praised for its expansive melodies and orchestration, which highlight the capabilities of the full orchestra while maintaining a lyrical quality.
5. Schubert's Ninth Symphony was not performed publicly until 1865, long after his death, indicating its initial reception did not match its later acclaim.

Review Questions

• How does Schubert's Symphony No. 9 exemplify the principles of sonata form variations in its structure?
  • Schubert's Symphony No. 9 showcases sonata form variations through its expansive first movement, which contains an exposition that introduces two contrasting themes. The subsequent development section explores these themes in depth, varying them through harmonic shifts and orchestral textures. The recapitulation then restates the original themes, allowing listeners to appreciate the transformations that occurred during development while maintaining a cohesive overall structure.
• Discuss the significance of lyrical melodies in Schubert's Ninth Symphony and how they contribute to its overall character.
  • Lyrical melodies are central to Schubert's Ninth Symphony, creating an emotional resonance that captures listeners' attention. These melodies often unfold gradually within each movement, enhancing the symphony's expressive quality. By employing long, sweeping phrases and rich harmonies, Schubert imbues the work with a sense of longing and beauty that sets it apart from other symphonic works of its time.
• Evaluate the impact of Schubert's Symphony No. 9 on subsequent composers and its place in the evolution of symphonic writing.
  • Schubert's Symphony No. 9 had a significant influence on subsequent composers by bridging Classical forms with Romantic expressiveness. Its innovative use of thematic development inspired later composers like Brahms and Mahler to explore deeper emotional narratives within their symphonic structures. The work helped pave the way for greater orchestral color and complexity in symphonic writing, marking a transition towards the more expansive forms that would characterize later Romantic symphonies.

Related terms

Sonata Form: A musical structure commonly used in the first movements of symphonies, consisting of three main sections: exposition, development, and recapitulation, allowing for thematic exploration and contrast.

Theme and Variations: A compositional technique where a theme is presented and then altered in successive iterations, showcasing creativity and diversity within a single musical idea.

Lyrical Melody: A style characterized by expressive and song-like melodies, often found in Romantic-era compositions that emphasize emotional depth and character.