Symphony No. 38 in D major, K. 504, "Prague"
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Work background
Researched classical background
Mozart brought this symphony to Prague, where The Marriage of Figaro had been enthusiastically received. The work has three movements and no minuet, but its long opening introduction and intricate main movement give it substantial weight. Wind instruments participate actively in the musical argument. The finale adds quick theatrical exchanges that connect the symphony's instrumental writing with Mozart's operatic imagination.
A listening guide
Listen for the winds' independent lines and for the changes of character within the long opening movement.
Listening suggestions are editorial guides to the music.
Forces: Orchestra
Composition: 1786
The manuscript is dated December 1786; Mozart introduced it in Prague in 1787.
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: Prague Symphony
Symphony No. 38, K. 504, "Prague" - LA Phil
Work identity, chronology where stated, and the specific musical or historical context summarized in this entry. | Reviewed 2026-10-19
Sources for this work
Symphony No. 38, K. 504, "Prague" - LA Phil
Work identity, chronology where stated, and the specific musical or historical context summarized in this entry. | Reviewed 2026-10-19
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