Mozart's Symphony no. 40 in g minor

The harmonic style employed in this popular symphony seems to project forward to the following centuries, especially to Beethoven's compositions. Drama and elegance are joined together in this creative classical work.

1st movement:

In sonata-allegro form, this movement in g minor has its foundation on certain motif, i.e. two descending eighth notes preceding a single quarter note.

2nd movement:

The character of this slow Andante movement, in modified sonata-allegro form, is held together by Mozart's handling of both emotion and texture in a holistic manner.

3rd movement:

This dramatic Minuet and Trio in g minor presents the two-measure syncopation in the minuet. The boisterous trio shifts the downbeat, thus also changing the meter.

4th movement:

Though the texture is light, this finale moves forward with a dramatic push, beginning with a rocket theme in the violin section. The aspect of Mozart looking towards the future in his music is featured in the development section as its material seems close to modern music.

Listen to this piece at:

http://www.naxos.com/catalogue/item.asp?item_code=8.110996