Bruckner Symphony No 9

Bernard Haitink, widely recognised as one the world’s leading interpreters of Bruckner, returns to conduct two of the Austrian composer’s masterpieces of his later years.

The very essence of Te deum and Symphony No 9 were shaped by Bruckner’s deep and unwavering commitment to his religion. Composed between 1881 and 1884, Te deum was dedicated 'For the greater glory of God'. With its resplendent C major opening and finale, it is a powerful affirmation of faith from a man who had suffered the anguish of repeated criticism throughout his years living and composing in Vienna. 

Bruckner was so proud of his Te deum that he suggested it could act as a finale for the eventually unfinished work he hoped would be his masterpiece – Symphony No 9. Dedicating the work once more to 'the beloved God', Bruckner slaved meticulously over the piece until the day he died. From its solemn opening brass to the harmonious finale of the Adagio, the Ninth Symphony is a colossal work that – as the composer himself had hoped – stands as a pinnacle of achievement.