Persistent rhythms, the contrapuntal writing of the Allegretto and expansive orchestral climaxes shape Beethoven’s Seventh Symphony. An imagined reconstruction inspired by the work’s early performances in Vienna. i Work Information Composer: Ludwig van Beethoven (1770–1827) Title: Symphony No. 7 in A Major, Op. 92 Year of composition: 1811–1812 First public performance: 8 December 1813, University Hall, Vienna, conducted by the composer Genre: Symphony Musical period: Late Classical Structure: Four movements Duration: Approximately 35–45 minutes, depending on tempi and the observance of repeats Instrumentation: Orchestra: 2 flutes, 2 oboes, 2 clarinets, 2 bassoons, 2 horns, 2 trumpets, timpani and strings Dedication: Count Moritz von Fries In the Seventh Symphony in A major, Op. 92, Beethoven gives rhythm an unusually powerful role in shaping a large symphonic work. Throughout the fast movements, short patterns persist while keys, melodic phrases and instrumental g...