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Another noteworthy addition is one of Mozart’s greatest pieces from his vast orchestral works: Mozart’s Symphony No. 40 in G minor, K. 550, performed by CAMERATA Salzburg. This concert recording from the Wiener Konzerthaus has a total duration of 36 minutes and 7 seconds. The Symphony in G minor is emotionally captivating across all its movements, with the following timestamps: 1. Molto allegro: 0:18, 2. Andante: 8:13, 3. Minuetto (Allegretto - Trio): 21:40, 4. Finale - Allegro assai: 25:35. The choice of performers adds a nostalgic element alongside their high musical quality.
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Alternatively, some commentators regard the recording by Harnoncourt in higher esteem: “Mozart Symphony No.40 in G minor KV 550 / Nikolaus Harnoncourt (2014)”. This recording, with a duration of 35 minutes and 7 seconds, was part of a concert during the styriarte festival with Harnoncourt’s Concentus Musicus in the Stefaniensaal in Graz. The timestamps for this recording are as follows: I. Molto allegro 00:00, II. Andante 07:30, III. Menuetto. Allegretto - Trio 19:40, IV. Finale. Allegro assai 24:22. I must admit, witnessing the old Harnoncourt (passed away in 2016), who conducted the work for decades and recorded it multiple times, is profoundly impressive. His wife, still playing the violin, albeit likely now at the second desk, adds to the spectacle. The entire concert (Mozart’s Symphonies 39, 40, and 41) is also available on YouTube: “Mozart: Symphonien Nr. 39, 40 und 41 ยท Concentus Musicus Wien | Harnoncourt” with a duration of 1 hour, 50 minutes, and 47 seconds.
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The first movement unfolds tremendous drama, distinct from the light-heartedness of the “Eine kleine Nachtmusik” discussed earlier, albeit only partially described here. From the recurring main theme with its dramatic-melancholic mood, the music traverses various emotional shades, reaching moments of despair and heroic resolution. The second movement (Andante) cautiously reengages with the world, amidst setbacks but without relinquishing hope, gradually transitioning towards a sense of serenity. The third movement demonstrates a newfound distance, evident in its determined rejection and the contrasting major-key theme, symbolizing a fresh start. The fourth movement (Allegro assai) liberates itself from the preceding turmoil while acknowledging it, embracing new challenges and possibilities - overall, it’s akin to witnessing a grand cinematic experience.