Symphony
Bernard Herrmann
Work background
Researched classical background
Herrmann composed this concert symphony during the period when his work for radio was helping establish his wider reputation. He conducted its first broadcast performance with the Columbia Symphony Orchestra in 1941. Unlike his screen assignments, the symphony allowed him to choose its own musical pacing and development, a freedom he explicitly discussed when introducing the work.
Inspiration and creative background
Herrmann explained that an independent concert work freed his music from the timing and narrative requirements of film.
YourClassical: Herrmann delivers a new symphony
1941 radio premiere conducted by composer and his explanation of writing independent concert music | Reviewed 2026-10-19
A listening guide
Editorial listening suggestion: follow the orchestral pacing without attaching it to a film narrative.
Listening suggestions are editorial guides to the music.
Forces: Orchestra
Composition: 1941
IRCAM dates the work 1941; this is distinct from the year of any later recording.
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: Symphony No.1
YourClassical: Herrmann delivers a new symphony
1941 radio premiere conducted by composer and his explanation of writing independent concert music | Reviewed 2026-10-19
IRCAM: Bernard Herrmann chronological works
Symphony dated 1941, for orchestra | Reviewed 2026-10-19
Sources for this work
YourClassical: Herrmann delivers a new symphony
1941 radio premiere conducted by composer and his explanation of writing independent concert music | Reviewed 2026-10-19
IRCAM: Bernard Herrmann chronological works
Symphony dated 1941, for orchestra | Reviewed 2026-10-19
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