Beethoven Interpretations - Essay Example

Originally a dedication to Napoleon Bonaparte Eroica was changed once Napoleon declared himself Emperor. I chose Eroica for the symbolism, beliefs and ideas that are represented with the symphony. Eroica has become one of the most analyzed musical pieces in history, filled with concepts such as heroism, death, apotheosis and revolution (Beethoven’s…). Because the Eroica was longer than most pieces it was generally performed towards the start of most concerts and was also known as Symphony No.

3 in E Flat. The Eroica consists of four movements with the first movement being the ‘Allegro con brio,’ the key is E Flat major in Sonata form (The Symphony…). Though Eroica has been performed by many composers and symphony’s Anton Rubinstein recorded and released his performance or Eroica of June in 1994. He included four movements as well, and in listening to the first movement it is easily evident that Rubinstein employed a slower tempo. It is easy to distinguish among the instruments in the orchestra and when the tempo begins to build there is a feeling of expectation and excitement as the listener waits to find out what other musical delight will be provided.

Rubinstein’s Eroica is almost whimsical and would fit well in a children’s dramatic scene as soundtrack accompaniment (Featured…). I almost prefer the tempo used in the Rubinstein piece as it produces a much more calming and tranquil effect. The instrument that most stand out is the strings and of course the piano, though it is blended well with the other instruments in the arrangement. It is also possible in one of the calm periods to hear what may be a flute or some other delicate instrument that would otherwise be overpowered during the rest of the arrangement.

The Budapest Philharmonic Orchestra also recorded the Eroica in June of 2007. Budapest Orchestra recorded each movement of Eroica in E Flat major. Movement one, Allegro Con Brio, sounds quite a bit