What Are the Four Movements in a Symphony?

The four symphony movements are classified according to rhythm, key, tempo and harmonization. They include an opening sonata or allegro, a slow movement called adagio, a minuet with trio, and an allegro, sonata or rondo.

A symphony typically tells a story. It's structured like this to create a narrative arc with an attractive, interesting beginning and a slower, romantic mid section that's followed by a medium part that brings story to its peak and leads to a fast ending.