Symphony No. 3 in E-flat Major, Op. 55 (Eroica)
Ludwig van Beethoven
Work background
Researched classical background
The Eroica greatly expands the scale and dramatic reach of Beethoven's symphonic writing. A broad first movement is followed by a funeral march, a scherzo with prominent horns, and a variations finale drawing on a theme he had used before. The original association with Napoleon was withdrawn. The surviving heroic title is broader than a musical portrait of one historical figure.
A listening guide
In the finale, listen for the bass pattern before the full theme and the increasingly varied treatment that follows.
Listening suggestions are editorial guides to the music.
Forces: Orchestra
Premiere: 1804 (private performances)
Private performances preceded the public premiere in Vienna in 1805; the score was developed earlier.
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: Eroica; Heroic Symphony
Date, title and version notes
The work is not assigned a detailed biographical narrative.
Symphony No. 3 in E-flat major, Op. 55, "Eroica" - 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. 3 in E-flat major, Op. 55, "Eroica" - 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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