Symphony No. 1
Alfred Schnittke
Work background
Researched classical background
Schnittke's First Symphony brings conflicting musical styles into the same large orchestral space. Quotations, popular idioms, modernist textures and theatrical actions interrupt one another across its extended course. These collisions are part of the composition rather than accidental intrusions. The work became a major example of his approach to combining historical and contemporary musical languages.
A listening guide
Listen for abrupt changes of style and for events that sound as if they interrupt the symphonic argument.
Listening suggestions are editorial guides to the music.
Forces: Large orchestra with keyboards, extensive percussion and theatrical actions
Composition: 1969-1972
Official composer catalogue gives 1969-72.
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.
Alfred Schnittke official site: music catalogue
First Symphony 1969-72 and work identity | Reviewed 2026-10-19
IRCAM: Alfred Schnittke, work overview
First Symphony montage and theatrical techniques in context of composer writings | Reviewed 2026-10-19
Sources for this work
Alfred Schnittke official site: music catalogue
First Symphony 1969-72 and work identity | Reviewed 2026-10-19
IRCAM: Alfred Schnittke, work overview
First Symphony montage and theatrical techniques in context of composer writings | Reviewed 2026-10-19
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