Symphony No. 5 (Beethoven)
II. Andante con moto

The second movement, in A ♭ major, the subdominant key of C minor's relative key (E ♭ major), is a lyrical work in double variation form, which means that two themes are presented and varied in alternation. Following the variations there is a long coda.

The movement opens with an announcement of its theme, a melody in unison by violas and cellos, with accompaniment by the double basses. A second theme soon follows, with a harmony provided by clarinets, bassoons, and violins, with a triplet arpeggio in the violas and bass. A variation of the first theme reasserts itself. This is followed up by a third theme, thirty-second notes in the violas and cellos with a counterphrase running in the flute, oboe, and bassoon. Following an interlude, the whole orchestra participates in a fortissimo, leading to a series of crescendos and a coda to close the movement. There is a hint in the middle of the movement that is similar to the coda of the 3rd.

A typical performance of this movement lasts approximately 8 to 11 minutes.
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