Symphony No. 6 in A major
Anton Bruckner
Work background
Researched classical background
Bruckner's Sixth has four movements and an unusually persistent rhythmic figure at its opening. Only its two middle movements were performed publicly during his lifetime. The full work reached the stage after his death, and early published and performed versions altered his score. Modern critical editions help distinguish those interventions from Bruckner's own orchestration.
A listening guide
Follow the opening rhythm beneath changing themes; compare the Adagio's long phrases with the compact scherzo.
Listening suggestions are editorial guides to the music.
Forces: Orchestra
Composition: 1879-1881
Composed 1879-81; posthumous editorial alterations are not treated as new compositions.
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.
Date, title and version notes
Early editions and performances contain interventions; a recording should identify its edition.
Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra: Bruckner Symphony No.6
Composition dates and musical context | Reviewed 2026-10-19
Bruckner Complete Edition: Symphony No.6
Work date and editorial history | Reviewed 2026-10-19
Sources for this work
Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra: Bruckner Symphony No.6
Composition dates and musical context | Reviewed 2026-10-19
Bruckner Complete Edition: Symphony No.6
Work date and editorial history | Reviewed 2026-10-19
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