symphony

A symphony is a long musical composition for full orchestra, typically in four movements. The term "symphony" comes from the Greek words "symphonia," meaning "concord" or "harmony," and "symphonizein," meaning "to sound together." The symphony is one of the most significant forms of classical music, with its roots tracing back to the late 18th century.

The standard symphony is structured into four movements, each with a distinct musical character:

1. The first movement is usually fast, in sonata form, and often in a major key.

2. The second movement is typically slow and lyrical, often in a minor key.

3. The third movement is a minuet and trio, or a scherzo and trio.

4. The final movement is fast, often in sonata form, and usually in a major key.

The symphony is a cornerstone of the classical music repertoire, with notable composers such as Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Ludwig van Beethoven, and Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky contributing some of the most celebrated works in this genre. Beethoven's Ninth Symphony, with its famous "Ode to Joy," is one of the most performed and recognized symphonies in the world.