Symphony No. 4, The Inextinguishable
Carl Nielsen
Work background
Researched classical background
Nielsen joined the four sections of this symphony into an uninterrupted span. It was written during the First World War, but its subtitle describes the persistence of life rather than a sequence of battle scenes. Two sets of timpani become conspicuous opponents in the final section, while a returning expansive theme helps unify the whole work.
Inspiration and creative background
Nielsen described the symphony's subject as the elemental will to live.
Royal Danish Library: Nielsen CNW28
Critical catalogue of Symphony No.4 | Reviewed 2026-10-19
A listening guide
Follow the recurring broad theme and the antiphonal timpani exchanges near the end.
Listening suggestions are editorial guides to the music.
Forces: Orchestra with two timpani groups
Composition: 1914-1916
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: Det Uudslukkelige; The Inextinguishable
Royal Danish Library: Nielsen CNW28
Critical catalogue of Symphony No.4 | Reviewed 2026-10-19
Sources for this work
Royal Danish Library: Nielsen CNW28
Critical catalogue of Symphony No.4 | Reviewed 2026-10-19
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