Beethoven, Van L.: Symphonies Nos. 3, "Eroica" and 8

Featuring

Osmo Vänskä
Minnesota Orchestra
Ludwig van Beethoven

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Compositional Technique

The finale of Beethoven's Third Symphony is based on a theme from his heroic-allegorical ballet Die Geschöpfe des Prometheus (The Creatures of Prometheus) from 1801.

Composition History

Beethoven's Third Symphony, the 'Eroica', was initially inspired by Napoleon Bonaparte, whom Beethoven admired as a champion of liberty.

Composition History

Beethoven furiously rescinded his dedication of the Third Symphony to Napoleon after Napoleon declared himself emperor, tearing the title page of his manuscript.

Performer Biography

Osmo Vänskä, the conductor on this album, began his musical career as a clarinettist, serving as co-principal in the Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra.

Composer Biography

Beethoven's Eighth Symphony, composed in 1812, was largely written during a summer excursion to the Bohemian spas of Teplitz and Karlsbad.

Critical Reception

Beethoven's Third Symphony set new standards in size and complexity, leaving many of its first audience bewildered or even hostile.

Recording & Production

This Hybrid SACD recording can be played in Stereo (CD and SACD) and in 5.0 Surround sound (SACD), aiming to reproduce the natural sound of a concert venue.