Page:Rolland - Beethoven, tr. Hull, 1927.pdf/154

it is, too, free from any vulgarity. A lovely bit of blue sky showing at the end, leads straight into the shepherd's song of thankfulness, which although containing several interesting points, the triple pedal at the opening with its horn yodel, etc., is somewhat lengthy and not very interesting. Beethoven had once intended to introduce words and chorus here, "Lord, we thank Thee," and it seems a pity that this idea was not carried out.

This Symphony was completed in May, 1812, but was not performed until December, 1813, at a Concert undertaken by Maelzel for the benefit of the wounded soldiers at the Battle of Hanau, October 30th, which Concert also contained Beethoven's Battle Symphony. In form, the Symphony contains nothing unusual. In subject, it is full of romance and colour from beginning to end.

Opening with a long introduction, which is almost a movement in itself, this contains a strong marching figure, and runs into the Vivace by the means of a half cadence. The Vivace, a rhythmical