Symphony No. 7
Gustav Mahler
Work background
Researched classical background
Mahler placed two movements titled Nachtmusik around a central scherzo, creating a five-movement symphony with contrasting kinds of night music at its centre. The second Nachtmusik introduces guitar and mandolin into the orchestra. A large opening movement and a conspicuously public-sounding finale frame these inner scenes. The familiar Song of the Night subtitle was not Mahler's own.
A listening guide
Compare the two Nachtmusik movements, especially the guitar and mandolin in the second.
Listening suggestions are editorial guides to the music.
Forces: Large orchestra including tenor horn, guitar and mandolin
Composition: 1904-1905
This entry describes the musical work or cycle. Composition, premiere and publication dates describe different events. Performers and recordings can be explored through the external listening search.
Also known as: Song of the Night
Date, title and version notes
Song of the Night is a later nickname, not an authorized programme.
Los Angeles Philharmonic: Mahler Symphony No.7
Composition dates, orchestration and five-movement design | Reviewed 2026-10-19
Mahler Foundation: Seventh Symphony introduction
Nickname attribution and work context | Reviewed 2026-10-19
Sources for this work
Los Angeles Philharmonic: Mahler Symphony No.7
Composition dates, orchestration and five-movement design | Reviewed 2026-10-19
Mahler Foundation: Seventh Symphony introduction
Nickname attribution and work context | Reviewed 2026-10-19
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