Â鶹ԼÅÄ

The life and work of the 19th century Austrian composer, famous for his grand symphonies, focusing on Bruckner's time in Vienna.

Bruckner produced his greatest and most enduring works during his time in Vienna. But although his symphonies exude power, confidence and surety of purpose, Bruckner himself was neurotic, obsessive and wracked by self-doubt. The musical life of the city itself was sharply divided – you were either a Brahmsian or a Wagnerian, and the two camps were as implacably opposed as mods and rockers. Donald Macleod introduces Bruckner’s Te Deum, which the composer is said to have regarded as his greatest work; and the 7th Symphony, whose Adagio is his monument to the man he always referred to as ‘the Master’, Richard Wagner.

Donald Macleod introduces Bruckner’s epic 8th Symphony and describes the spate of ‘revision mania’ that followed in its wake. He also includes the astonishing Symphony no.9, which Bruckner laboured – but failed – to finish before his death.

Wagnerian, and the two camps were as implacably opposed as mods and rockers.

Bruckner’s Epic 8th Symphony and the spate of ‘revision mania’ that followed in its wake is highlighted. Although his symphonies exude power, confidence and surety of purpose, Bruckner himself was neurotic, obsessive and wracked by self-doubt.

Show less