This three-movement symphony musically depicts the history of Hungary. Key historical figures, wars and other important events from this country inspired all three movements. The first movement depicts Atilla, the King of the Huns, and is characterised by fear, threat and aggression. The second movement focuses on Arpad, the founder of the Hungarian State and the final movement is named after Istvan, the King who introduced Christianity into Hungary. The beautiful theme of the national hymn appears throughout the symphony, however it is often partially hidden. It is used as a "thread," hardly recognizable at the beginning, becoming more and more obvious near the end and it concludes the symphony as the "final apotheosis," making the band sound like a majestic living organ.
Duration: 12:45
