In the classical period, the first movement of a symphony (or string quartet or piano sonata) is generally the most dramatic and longest (duration) movement. This was true of both the Boulogne and the Haydn symphonies we heard. The form of the first movement of a classical symphony is almost always sonata form.

One Score, Multiple Approaches. In the score of the “Resurrection” Symphony, Mahler calls for a five-minute pause between the end of the first movement and the start of the second—an exceptionally long break at an early stage in a performance.

A symphony is made up of four sections called movements. Each movement follows its own structure or format. The first uses a quick tempo and follows sonata-allegro form; the second is slower and more lyrical; the third is a minuet or scherzo and the final movement often uses sonata-allegro form.

The four movements of a symphony The first movement of a symphony is usually in a form called Sonata form and is often the most significant of the four movements. The second movement is usually slow and lyrical. The third movement is usually a dance, or sometimes a "Scherzo," which is a light, quick piece.