Symphony No. 1 in A-flat major
Edward Elgar
Work background
Researched classical background
Elgar's First Symphony begins with a broad motto that returns across its four movements. Much of the first movement moves away from the motto's A-flat major, creating a persistent tonal contrast. The quick second movement flows directly into the Adagio, and the finale eventually restores the opening idea. Elgar did not provide a literal story for this design.
A listening guide
Recognize the opening motto when it returns in the finale.
Listening suggestions are editorial guides to the music.
Forces: Orchestra
Composition: 1908
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
Elgar's earlier idea for a Gordon symphony is not treated as the programme of this work.
Elgar Society: First Symphony
1908 composition, motto theme and non-programmatic status | Reviewed 2026-10-19
Sources for this work
Elgar Society: First Symphony
1908 composition, motto theme and non-programmatic status | Reviewed 2026-10-19
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