On Sunday, May 17, the Mozart Symphonies Challenge continues with Symphony K.543, the first of Mozart’s last three great symphonies, composed during the summer of 1788.

It will also be the final concert of the ICNT 2025/26 season.

Symphony K.543 has a very distinctive character: the slow introduction is solemn and almost ceremonial, while the rest of the work constantly moves between lightness, transparency and rhythmic vitality.

One of the most interesting aspects is the orchestral colour. Mozart removes the oboes and gives the clarinets a central role, creating a softer and darker sound than in many earlier symphonies.

The dialogue between winds and strings is also particularly refined: in several passages the orchestra almost resembles a large chamber ensemble.

The Trio of the Minuet introduces a more popular, dance-like atmosphere, while the Finale moves forward with continuous energy without losing clarity or lightness.

As often happens in Mozart’s late works, the apparent simplicity hides an extremely precise construction.

The Mozart Symphonies Challenge format

A single open rehearsal in the afternoon.

Concert in the evening.

In just a few hours the orchestra works on articulation, balance, tempi and the construction of a shared sound.

The audience hears the result of that work in the evening concert.

It is possible to attend both the rehearsal and the concert, or only one of the two.

Sunday, May 17, 2026

📍 Waldensian Church, Piazza Cavour – Rome

🕒 Open rehearsal: 3:00 PM
🎶 Concert: 8:00 PM

🎟️ Free admission
Booking recommended

👉 Book now