Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony

The second and third movements were more dolce and leggiero. Then they would crescendo almost stealthily to the climax. The third movement is still dolce but is more playful than the second movement. Over and over, the four note theme was twisted, turned and thrown out with gusto. The solos pass the melodies to each other and the dynamics deliberately chase each other. The second movement started with lovely dynamic shapes with phrases dropping off into a dreamy pianissimo.

Watching the video, the excitement, vigor and enthralling rapture of the conductor and the musicians, makes the powerful music even more dramatic and touching.

The fourth and final movement becomes revitalized and majestic. The melody ebbs and flows, now semplice, no con fuoco. The peaceful intervals of swaying melodies only added to the expectancy and tension, like the eye of the storm. With all the triumph and joy, the final resounding chords pounded and hammered out with an immortal energy. Melodies from brass, echoed by strings weave in and out throughout the movement. In this movement, the four note theme is used as a rhythm pattern, though not necessarily the same notes. The pauses leaves the audience hanging and trying to guess where the unpredictable Beethoven will lead.