This is the most popular and easily recognised of Mozart's at least symphonies, although its first movement became one of the most annoying mobile phone ringtones in the 1990s. This symphony, in contrast with the joyfulness of the other symphonies, has a darker mood. In fact, it was composed in a difficult period for Mozart: financial difficulties due to impending war, an indifferent reception of his opera "Don Giovani", less eagerness of the Viennese audiences to hear his concerts and recitals and the death of his daughter. However, at that time the German and Austrian composers were increasingly expressing dark feelings and angst, therefore this tendency might have also influenced Mozart in composing more sorrowful and somber music.
The listener is immediately plunged into the dark and restless melody of the symphony's 1st movement right from the beginning, without even having to wait for an introduction. A careful listener may even notice some Mozart "sighing" in the music through the sound of the violins. Suggested title for this composition: "Sombre Mozart"