Symphony No. 3 in E-flat major, Rhenish
Robert Schumann
Work background
Researched classical background
Schumann wrote the Rhenish soon after moving to Dusseldorf. Its five-movement layout includes an additional solemn movement before the finale, associated with impressions of Cologne Cathedral. The work combines broad opening rhythms, a landler-like second movement and an intimate middle movement. Its numbering does not place it last among the symphonies' composition histories.
Inspiration and creative background
Schumann's life in the Rhineland and his visit to Cologne Cathedral informed the work.
Los Angeles Philharmonic: Schumann Rhenish Symphony
1850 composition, five movements and Cologne connection | Reviewed 2026-10-19
A listening guide
Notice how the solemn fourth movement changes the scale and colour before the finale.
Listening suggestions are editorial guides to the music.
Forces: Orchestra
Composition: 1850
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: Rhenish Symphony
Los Angeles Philharmonic: Schumann Rhenish Symphony
1850 composition, five movements and Cologne connection | Reviewed 2026-10-19
Sources for this work
Los Angeles Philharmonic: Schumann Rhenish Symphony
1850 composition, five movements and Cologne connection | Reviewed 2026-10-19
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