Manfred Symphony in B minor, Op. 58. A symphony composed by Pyotr Tchaikovsky in 1885. Based on the poem/play Manfred, written by Lord Byron in 1817.

The origin of this symphony dates back to previous years, where Hector Berliotz came to inspire many Russian composers. Mily Balakirev had the original idea, though he thought it was not in his character to engage in such composition, for as he explained in a letter to Tchaikovsky in October 9 1882, 'this magnificent subject is unsuitable, it doesn't harmonise with my inner frame of mind'.

The subject was forgotten for a couple of years until 1885, when Tchaikovsky purchased a copy of Byron's 'Manfred' and engaged in composing the symphony. Balakirev had written the programme which was to be followed to the last detail - even the key signatures and modulations which were to be used - but Tchaikovsky chose to write it in his own style. Initially, he considered it (as usual) to be one of his best compositions, but wanted, a few years later, to destroy the score, though that intention was never carried out.

It is scored for 3 flutes (3rd doublinc piccolo), 2 oboes, cor anglais, 2 clarinets in A, B-flat bass clarinet, 4 horns, 2 cornets, 2 trumpets, 2 tenor trombones, bass trombone, tuba, timpani, bass drum, cymbals, tam-tam, bells, triangle, tambourine, 2 harps, 1st and 2nd violins, violas, cellos and double basses.

External Links

• MP3 files of excerpts from the 4 movements
• "Listen online" (BBC Radio, Manfred Symphony performed by BBC Philharmonic; Includes brief review of the work.)
• links to sheet music of Manfred Symphony