Surrounded by two ‘big’ symphonies, Beethoven’s Eighth, at first listening, seems a rather lightweight, fun affair, but closer scrutiny reveals that, despite (or maybe because of) its sense of humour, it’s a lot more than just a light interlude between two monoliths.
From the very opening and throughout, the symphony shifts the parameters of symphonic writing, moving the entire emphasis of the work from its traditional placement in the opening movement to the sustained wit of its finale.
Allegro vivace e con brio: 0:00
Allegretto scherzando: 11:32
Tempo di Menuetto: 16:00
Allegro vivace: 21:29
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The Art of Listening 