Repertoire: The BEST Beethoven Fourth Symphony

This is probably Beethoven's least popular, most misunderstood symphony, but it is no less masterful than the "Eroica" (No. 3) or the Fifth. From a purely technical point of view, it represents Beethoven's full maturity as a symphonist, while its expressive radiance, muscular energy and feelings of happiness and contentment mark it out as unique among its companions. Here's a brief guide to the work's special qualities, and the recordings that realize them most effectively. Musical Examples courtesy of Supraphon Records