Bruckner’s Symphony No.8 in C minor was his last complete work (he died before completing his ninth), and it was also the product of the happiest time of his life. Comprising the largest scale in performing forces (for example, eight French horns are required), the symphony is tightly structured, with counterpoint that transcends texture and development. Noted for a lengthy slow movement (longer than the first movement), the composer injected a transcendent, majestic spirit to his score. In this work, Bruckner uses music to express his hopes for the mortal world and of life and death.