PROKOFIEV: SYMPHONY NO. 5 IN B FLAT

Aesthetically

There is a very important factor concerning classical musicߞyou don’t get rired or bored after listening to a piece more than once at a sitting. In fact, each time you hear it, you find in it something new. In general, classical music of xthe twentieth centry certainly emphasizes this. Since the Impressionistic period, composers have disregarded pure from for the more aesthetic aspects in music. I wouldn’t go so far as to say that contemporary music is more profound, because that is primarily up to the listener; but it deals with more abstract things.

Prokifiev’s Fifth Symphony is a perfect example of the above. It doesn’t dictate to you how you’re supposed to feel. Of course, it gives you subtle hints, but never obvious ones. Unlike pieces that will let you experience something of the composer, the Fifth Symphony enables you to relive your own experiences. Because sections of the symphony are melancholic, while others are majestic and elated, you will find it easy to listen to, no matter how you are feeling.

Practically