Symphony No. 7 in C-sharp minor
Sergei Prokofiev
Work background
Researched classical background
Prokofiev's final symphony originated in a commission for a children's radio programme. Its four movements include a waltz and a songlike slow movement, using accessible melodic shapes within a full orchestral score. The work was written when the composer's health was failing. Its clear surface leaves room for harmonic turns and recollections that complicate a purely cheerful reading.
A listening guide
Compare the second movement's waltz with the more sustained melody of the slow movement.
Listening suggestions are editorial guides to the music.
Forces: Orchestra including harp, piano and percussion
Composition: 1951-1952
Composed 1951-52. The entry does not select between the original and alternate endings.
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.
Date, title and version notes
Different endings are encountered in performance; a recording should identify its choice.
Boosey & Hawkes: Prokofiev Seventh Symphony
1951-52 work, radio origin and alternate ending | Reviewed 2026-10-19
Los Angeles Philharmonic: Prokofiev Seventh Symphony
1951-52 composition, children's radio commission, musical form and two endings | Reviewed 2026-10-19
Sources for this work
Boosey & Hawkes: Prokofiev Seventh Symphony
1951-52 work, radio origin and alternate ending | Reviewed 2026-10-19
Los Angeles Philharmonic: Prokofiev Seventh Symphony
1951-52 composition, children's radio commission, musical form and two endings | Reviewed 2026-10-19
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