Symphony No. 25 in G Minor

Symphony No. 25 in G minor, K. 183

Composer: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

Date of publication: October 1773

Mozart's Symphony No. 25 in G minor, also known as the "little G minor symphony", is one of only two symphonies he composed in G minor. His tendency to shy away from the key may have stemmed from the consensus at the time -centering a composition around G minor was considered unusual. Moreover, G minor is considered the key through which Mozart best articulated sadness, which has led to Symphony No. 25 being described as Mozart's first "tragic" symphony.

However, the reason for this stylistic decision remains a mystery, as Mozart was only 17 at the time and not many revealing written records are left. Adding to this air of mystique is the unconfirmed rumor that Mozart completed Symphony No. 25 only two days after Symphony No. 24, making the symphony. The "little" in its nickname originally referenced the piece's perceived inferiority to Mozart's other G minor symphony, Symphony No. 40, which debuted almost 15 years later. Indeed, the Symphony No. 25 remained one of Mozart's most obscure works for decades until its first movement was featured as the opening music in Miloš Forman's 1984 film, Amadeus. Since then, its popularity has skyrocketed, with Symphony No. 25 undergoing a critical reevaluation and gaining newfound appreciation. It is now recognized as a pillar of classical music, foreshadowing the Romantic era and exemplifying the genius of its composer.

Fun Fact: Beethoven’s famous 5th symphony’s third movement may have been inspired by the Mozart’s little G minor’s first movement theme. Beethoven was very familiar with Mozart’s 25th, and had even copied 29 measures from the symphony into his notebook.

Movements:

I. Allegro con brio

II. Andante

III. Menuetto e Trio

IV. Allegro