The autograph manuscript bears evidence that the symphony was completed in October 1812, merely five months after the seventh one. It was first performed in a concert given of Beethoven's works in Vienna, on February 27, 1814.

Although the musicians and the critics immediately recognized its exceptional values, the 8th symphony took longer to gain popularity than its predecessors. Schumann reported as late as 1840 that this magnificent work was undeservedly seldom performed in concerts. The ...