The German Symphony between Beethoven and Brahms

Focusing on the overlooked contributions to the symphonic genre, Christopher Fifield challenges Carl Dahlhaus's notion of 'dead time' regarding the period between Schumann and Brahms. He explores non-programmatic symphonies from the mid-1820s to mid-1870s, highlighting the significance of various composers who have been unjustly dismissed. This examination reveals the richness and importance of this era in classical music, offering a fresh perspective on symphonic development during a time often considered stagnant.