A First for the Second

22 February 1948 was a crucial date in Furtwängler's life: he gave the first performance of his Second Symphony, in Berlin with his orchestra.

For a man who considered himself a creative artist first and a performer second, and whose first "major" symphonic work this was, there is no doubt that this was one of the most significant concerts.

Here is the facsimile of the programme for the next day, which contains a detailed analysis of the work.

Furtwängler conducting the premiere of his Second Symphony at the Admiralspalast.

10 May 2020

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