By Matthew Arnold
IMA Web Editor
I. Historical Background.
Mozart’s symphony in D major K. 504 was composed at
the end of 1786, the score was signed on December 6th[1].
This was during the period of his steady decline in popularity amongst the
Viennese public, although the problems of finances and health were still in the
future. His recently completed opera Le nozze di Figaro had been a
respectable success in Vienna, but it’s enthusiastic reception in the Bohemian
capital of Prague compelled him to make a trip there in January of 1787[2].
Prague’s love for Mozart has become legendary, and it was
initiated by the success of this opera. He was lodged at the palace of Count
Johan Thun, the dedicatee of his earlier Symphony #36 ‘Linz’, and wrote his
famous impression of the city to a friend: “For here they talk of nothing but Figaro;
they play nothing, sing nothing, whistle nothing but Figaro, they go to
no opera but Figaro and forever Figaro.” [3]
Accounts
at the time say that “no piece (so everyone here asserts) has ever caused such
a sensation…” and “it is not easy to depict the Bohemian’s enthusiasm for this
music”[4].
During the performance of Figaro Mozart attended in Prague on
January 17th[5]
news of his presence spread and before the curtain rose “he was overwhelmed
with welcoming applause”[6].
On the 22nd of January he conducted a performance of the opera, but
in between these two engagements found an opportunity to give a concert
himself, at which K. 504 was played.
This
symphony’s movements were composed in reverse order, the finale begun
first as a new final movement to his Symphony K. 297 ‘Paris’[7].
Analysis of manuscript paper and general “conjecture”[8]
has made this an accepted theory. In light of this, writing for a performance
in mind at Prague can be ruled out, even though the quote of Figaro
in the 3rd movement must have been a happy coincidence. A planned
trip to England during the carnival season of 1787 was postponed
right before his decision to go to Prague, so perhaps a performance there would have
materialized[9].
Landon[10]
says that the piece was composed in Vienna and was therefore intended to be played there. At
any rate, the city of its premiere became attached to its name.
[1]
Edward Downes Guide to Symphonic Music (GSM) pg. 683
[2]
Stanley Sadie New Grove Mozart (NGM) pg. 112
