Symphony No. 9 in C major, D. 944 ‘The Great C major’ - Franz Schubert

Symphony No. 9 in C major, D. 944 ‘The Great C major’ by Franz Schubert

Schubert completed his 9th symphony in 1826. There is contradictory evidence regarding the first performance of the work, with some correspondence suggesting there was an informal performance as early as 1827. The first confirmed public performance did not take place until 1839, eleven years after the death of Schubert.

The reason for the delayed premiere is partially due to the limited funds Schubert had when completing the work in 1826. As Schubert could not afford to organise the performance himself, he sold the manuscript to the Gesellschaft der Musikfreunde in Wien (Society for Friends of Music in Vienna). Another reason the symphony did not have an immediate premiere is the length and difficulty of the work, considered beyond the abilities of an amateur orchestra.

It was in 1838 that Robert Schumann would visit Vienna, and be shown the manuscript of the 9th symphony at the Gesellschaft der Musikfreunde. He was so impressed with the work he took a copy with him back to Leipzig where the premiere would be given in March of 1839 with the composer Felix Mendelssohn conducting.

The subtitle ‘The Great C major’ is due to the length of the symphony (which is longer than most) and to differentiate it from the 6th symphony which was also in C major.

The work is comprised of four movements: I. Andante 00:00 – Allegro ma non-troppo 04:21 – Più moto 12:39 II. Andante con moto 14:41 III. Scherzo. Allegro vivace 30:34 IV. Finale. Allegro vivace 41:31