[Recommended] Carefully selected masterpieces by Bruckner, the great master of symphonies and sacred music

Prelude in D minorAnton Bruckner

Anton Bruckner – Vorspiel in d, WAB 130 (Luca Massaglia, organ)

In addition to symphonies and sacred music, Anton Bruckner left about seven organ works.

This Prelude in D minor was composed around 1864.

Although it is a short piece of just under three minutes, it is a compelling work distinguished by Bruckner’s characteristic solemn tone and its rich, weighty harmonies.

Fantasia in G majorAnton Bruckner

A. Bruckner: Fantasie G major, 1868, with G. Hemetsberger

A piano piece composed in 1868.

A bright, lyrical melody intertwines with a ripple-like accompaniment, creating an irresistible charm.

It can be seen as a work that pleasantly defies the common image of “Bruckner equals solemn and powerful.” Highly recommended for those who want to glimpse a slightly different side of Bruckner.

Symphony No. 9 in D minorAnton Bruckner

Bruckner – Symphony No 9 in D minor – Celibidache

Anton Bruckner’s final symphony.

The composer passed away in 1896, leaving the work unfinished.

Today, the completed three movements are often performed.

However, there are various interpretive approaches: later composers have attempted to complete the fourth movement, and in deference to Bruckner’s wishes, the Te Deum is sometimes used as the fourth movement.

Three Pieces for OrchestraAnton Bruckner

Anton Bruckner: three orchestral pieces

Along with the March in D minor, it is said to be one of the first orchestral works that Anton Bruckner completed, and together with the March in D minor it is sometimes referred to as the Four Orchestral Pieces.

Although it seems to be seldom performed in concerts, it is a valuable collection that offers a taste of Bruckner’s early works.

March in D minor, WAB 96Anton Bruckner

Anton Bruckner – March in D-Minor

Composed in 1862, the March in D minor, WAB 96, is a work Anton Bruckner wrote for practice while studying under cellist Otto Kitzler.

Characterized by a Romantic style, the piece is imbued with quintessential Brucknerian qualities that evoke Austria’s rich natural landscapes and the grandeur of Baroque architecture.

Although it remains relatively little known—its premiere took place posthumously on October 12, 1927, in Klosterneuburg under Franz Moissl—it nonetheless holds an important place among his orchestral works and symphonic masterpieces.

Intermezzo in D minor, WAB 113Anton Bruckner

Anton Bruckner – Intermezzo in D minor, WAB 113: Intermezzo for String Quintet. Bruckner / Intermezzo

Composed in 1879, the Intermezzo in D minor, WAB 113 was originally conceived as the scherzo section of a string quintet but was later published as an independent work.

In this piece—where Bruckner’s profound religiosity fuses with his passion for music—one finds grandeur evocative of Austria’s rich natural landscapes and the solemn majesty of Baroque churches.

Outstanding recordings by various ensembles, such as the Bartholdy Quintet and the Melos Quartet, each recreate Bruckner’s worldview through their own interpretations, making it well worth enjoying comparative listening.

March in E-flat major, WAB 116Anton Bruckner

Marsch in Es-Dur (1865) WAB 116

As Anton Bruckner’s only work for wind band, the March in E-flat major, WAB 116 showcases the composer’s wide-ranging style.

Completed in 1865, the piece was seldom performed during his lifetime, and both its premiere and publication occurred posthumously.

While its melodies and harmonies foreshadow Bruckner’s later works, the piece is formally simple and the connections between sections are considered weak.

Performances and recordings are few, but a notable recording by the Linz Bruckner Orchestra exists, making it a valuable piece for those seeking a deeper understanding of Bruckner’s music.

Highly recommended for anyone who wants to explore Bruckner’s musical world or experience the appeal of wind band music.