Symphony No. 5 in C minor, op. 67

Composed between 1804 and 1808, Beethoven's Fifth Symphony is among the most celebrated and frequently performed works in the history of Western classical music. Its instantly recognisable four-note opening motif, dramatic intensity and remarkable structural unity have made it one of the defining achievements of the symphonic repertoire. The work's progression from the turbulent C minor of the opening movement to the triumphant C major of the finale has often been interpreted as a musical journey from struggle to victory.

Premiered: December 22, 1808
Where: Theater an der Wien, Vienna
Dedication: Prince J. F. M. Lobkowitz and Count Rasumovsky
Reception: The premiere performance took place under adverse conditions, but there was little critical response
Instrumentation: 2 Flauti; 2 Oboi; 2 Clarinetti; 2 Fagotti; Contrafagotto; 2 Corni; 2 Trombe; 3 Tromboni; Timpani; Archi
Bars (total): 1566
On this site: 186 recordings · average 33:00 · compare all timings →

Movements

I. Allegro con brio (C minor)502 bars · 1 printed repeat
II. Andante con moto (A-flat major)247 bars · No printed repeat
III. Allegro (C minor)373 bars · 1 printed repeat
IV. Allegro (C major)444 bars · 1 printed repeat