Symphony No. 2 in D major
Ludwig van Beethoven
Work background
Researched classical background
Beethoven's Second expands the scale and instrumental independence of the Classical symphony. Its substantial slow introduction leads to a vigorous Allegro, followed by a long Larghetto. A scherzo replaces the conventional minuet, and the finale uses sudden accents and quick changes of direction. The work belongs to the period of the Heiligenstadt Testament, although it has no authorized autobiographical programme.
A listening guide
Listen for abrupt accents and comic interruptions in the finale.
Listening suggestions are editorial guides to the music.
Forces: Orchestra
Composition: 1802
Completed in 1802; premiered in 1803.
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
The contemporaneous Heiligenstadt Testament does not supply a literal programme for the music.
Portobello Orchestra: Beethoven Second Symphony
1802 work and movement guide | Reviewed 2026-10-19
Sources for this work
Portobello Orchestra: Beethoven Second Symphony
1802 work and movement guide | Reviewed 2026-10-19
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