The importance of Anton Bruckner's Symphony in D Minor "No. O"

Until now little has been said, of the historical significance of Anton Bruckner's Symphony No. 0 in D Minor. This early work deserves consideration along with the composer's recognized group of nine symphonies because of the effect it had on those later works. The composition of the early Symphony was accomplished in two separate stages, and some musicologists have engaged in a conflict over the dates involved in its creation. It seems more important, however, to recognize the work's musical value and contribution to nineteenth-century symphonic literature. This study points out that certain characteristic features often associated with the mature Bruckner symphonies are found in the Symphony No. 0. It further shows that the musical substance of the "Nullte" is acceptable and that the Symphony stands as a musical composition worthy of study and performance.