The Symphony in D major, Op. 24, is the only work in this genre by the Bohemian-born composer Jan Václav Voříšek. It is a very early example of a Romantic symphony, although it could also be seen as a late example of a Classical work. It was written in 1821, when Voříšek was aged 30; he died young, at only 34.
The dedication to Aloys von Fuchs was inscribed in the composer's own hand on 14 April 1823.[1]
It is scored for a standard classical orchestra typical of late Haydn or early Beethoven symphonies: 2 flutes, 2 oboes, 2 clarinets, 2 bassoons, 2 horns, 2 trumpets, timpani and strings.[2] Indeed, it has often been compared to early Beethoven, although it was written only six years before that master's death, 16 months after Voříšek. He was a friend of Schubert and may well have been influenced by that composer as well.
The Symphony in D is Voříšek's most famous work, and is the first major Czech contribution to the 19th century symphonic literature.[3]
The movements are:
The Symphony in D has been recorded by:
Performance of the Symphony by Slovak Sinfonietta, conducted Peter Vronský, (Indian Summer in Levoča Festival, 2011), on YouTube.