Symphony No. 4 in F minor
Ralph Vaughan Williams
Work background
Researched classical background
Vaughan Williams's Fourth begins with an abrasive clash and tightly concentrated motivic writing. Four movements culminate in an extended fugal epilogue, with material from the opening returning at the end. Its force surprised listeners familiar with his more contemplative music. The composer resisted claims that the symphony was a prediction or literal depiction of the coming war.
A listening guide
Track the short opening figure as it returns in the final fugal writing.
Listening suggestions are editorial guides to the music.
Forces: Orchestra
Composition: 1931-1934
The British Library manuscript catalogue dates composition to 1931-34.
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
A prophetic war programme is not established and was rejected by the composer.
American Symphony Orchestra: Vaughan Williams Fourth Symphony
1934 completion and musical rather than literal wartime programme | Reviewed 2026-10-19
British Library: Vaughan Williams Fourth Symphony manuscripts
1931-34 composition dates | Reviewed 2026-10-19
Sources for this work
American Symphony Orchestra: Vaughan Williams Fourth Symphony
1934 completion and musical rather than literal wartime programme | Reviewed 2026-10-19
British Library: Vaughan Williams Fourth Symphony manuscripts
1931-34 composition dates | Reviewed 2026-10-19
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