Schumann: Symphony No. 3 in E-Flat Major, Op. 94, Overture to "Die Braut von Messina" - Masur, Gewandhaus Orchestra

Schumann Symphony No. 3 liner notes

In September of 1850 Schumann took up residence Düsseldorf, where he had been appointed music director. The same month he began composition of his Symphony in E-Flat, called No. 3 but actually his fourth and last work in this form. Schumann conducted the first performance in February of 1851. The title, "Rhenish,'" derives from both general and specific aspects. Schumann "wished national elements to prevail, and think I have succeeded; " both the second and last movements have a distinctly popular flavor. During the time of this symphony's composition Schumann visited Cologne (on the Rhine) to attend the elevation of the local archbishop to cardinal. This event, dominated by celebrations at the famous Gothic cathedral (see cover illustration), clearly impressed the composer, who responded in musical terms by writing the remarkable fourth movement, originally entitled, "An accompaniment to a solemn ceremony, which is the heart of the entire symphony and the immediate inspiration for its subtitle.