Frequently asked questions
This page gives answers to the most frequently asked questions about Symphs. If your question isn't answered here please email us.
I'm new to classical music - can you recommend some symphonies?
See our list of the ten greatest 20th-century symphonies:
Greatest 20th-century symphonies
Where can I download free symphonies?
We recommend the following symphonies that are available for free download here:
Where can I find out more information about symphonies?
See this feature about podcasts that are available for free download:
What is a sinfonietta?
A sinfonietta is an orchestral work that is considered to be smaller in scope than a full-scale symphony. Some famous examples are the Sinfonietta by Leoš Janáček, and the Sinfonietta by Benjamin Britten.
What is a sinfonia?
Sinfonia is the Italian word for symphony. In English it is often used to refer to a shorter work than a symphony. However many full-scale symphonies have been referred to as sinfonias to indicate that their character is somewhat different from a normal symphony; for example, the sombre Sinfonia da Requiem by Benjamin Britten.