Beethoven's Orchestral Music

Beethoven’s orchestral works include some of the most iconic pieces of music ever written. Veteran music critic David Hurwitz surveys all of the symphonies, overtures, concertos, theatrical music, his single ballet and other music for the dance, and several short pieces. It also features extensive discographies and recommended recordings.

Preface

Part I: Listening to Beethoven

1. Beethoven and the Orchestra
2. Beethoven's Dynamic Forms

Part II: Overtures

Discography
3. Theatrical Overtures
4. Concert Overtures

Interlude 1: Dance Music

Part III: Concertos and Concerted Works

Discography
5. General Introduction to Concerto Forms
6. Concertos for Piano
7. Concerto and Romances for Violin
8. Triple Concerto and Choral Fantasy

Interlude 2: Incidental Music

Part IV: Symphonies

Discography
9. Symphonies Nos. 1 and 2
10. Symphonies Nos. 3 "Eroica" and 4
11. Symphonies Nos. 5 and 6 "Pastoral"
12. Symphonies Nos. 7 and 8
13. Wellington's Victory (a. k. a. "Battle Symphony")
14. Symphony No. 9 "Choral"

Conclusion: The Quasi-Orchestral Beethoven