September 4, 1824:
Joseph Anton Bruckner is born at Augustinerstraße 3 in Ansfelden near Linz, Austrian Empire, the eldest of eleven children (only five surviving infancy) born to Anton Bruckner, schoolmaster and organist, and Therese Helm, daughter of a civil servant and innkeeper.
August 27, 1837:
Anton Bruckner (12) is admitted to the elementary school at the monastery of St. Florian.
October 1, 1840:
Anton Bruckner (16) passes an entrance examination to teacher-training college in Linz.
October 15, 1840:
Anton Bruckner (16) begins teacher training at the Normalhauptschule in Linz.
July 30, 1841:
Anton Bruckner (16) passes an examination in Linz qualifying him to be an assistant teacher.
October 3, 1841:
Anton Bruckner (17) begins duties as assistant schoolmaster in Windhaag.
January 23, 1843:
Assistant schoolmaster Anton Bruckner (18) is transferred from Windhaag to much happier and more congenial circumstances, a post at Kronstorf, near Steyr.
September 19, 1843:
An dem Feste for male chorus by Anton Bruckner (19) to words of Knauer, is performed for the first time, in Enns.
May 29, 1845:
In Linz, Anton Bruckner (20) passes the Konkursprüfung, the examination to become a full teacher.
September 25, 1845:
Anton Bruckner (21) becomes assistant teacher at the school he attended as a child, the Paris School of St. Florian, a community of Augustinian priests situated southwest of Linz. He will remain here for the next ten years, but it will be his spiritual home throughout his life.
September 15, 1849:
A setting of the Requiem in d minor for soloists, chorus, three trombones, strings, and organ by Anton Bruckner (25) is performed for the first time, at St. Florian.
February 28, 1850:
Anton Bruckner (25) is appointed provisional organist at St. Florian.
August 15, 1852:
A setting of the Magnificat for soloists, chorus, orchestra, and organ by Anton Bruckner (27) is performed for the first time, at St. Florian, on the first anniversary of his close friend, Franz Sailer.
September 28, 1852:
Heil Vater! Dir zum hohen Feste, a cantata by Anton Bruckner (28) to words of Marinelli, is performed for the first time, at St. Florian.
July 25, 1853:
Anton Bruckner (28) applies for the Austrian civil service post of clerk in the district court of St. Florian.
March 28, 1854:
After the Requiem mass for the funeral of Michael Arneth, prior of St. Florian and friend of Anton Bruckner (29), Bruckner’s Vor Arneths Grab for chorus and three trombones and Libera me, Domine (II) for chorus, three trombones, cello, double bass and organ are heard for the first time.
April 22, 1854:
Anton Bruckner’s (29) Laßt Jubeltöne laut erklingen for male chorus and brass to words of Weiss is performed for the first time, for the reception of the future Empress Elizabeth, in Linz.
September 14, 1854:
Missa solemnis in b flat minor for soloists, chorus, orchestra, and organ by Anton Bruckner (30) is performed for the first time, for the installation of Friedrich Theophil Mayr as new prior at St. Florian.
October 9, 1854:
Anton Bruckner (30) passes an organ examination in Vienna at which he improvises a double fugue.
January 25, 1855:
Today and tomorrow, Anton Bruckner (30) takes the Hauptlehrer-Prüfung in Linz.
January 28, 1855:
Anton Bruckner (30) is deemed to have passed the Hauptlehrer-Prüfung, which qualifies him to be a high school teacher.
July 17, 1855:
Auf, Brüder, auf! Und die Saiten zur Hand, a cantata for male soloists, male chorus, chorus, woodwinds, and brass by Anton Bruckner (30) to words of Marinelli, is performed for the first time, at St. Florian.
November 13, 1855:
An organ tuner arriving at St. Florian tells Anton Bruckner (31) that there is to be a preliminary competition for the post of cathedral organist in Linz today. Bruckner is reluctant to attend but is convinced by others. His performance is so outstanding that he will be named the winner tomorrow. See 25 January 1856.
December 8, 1855:
Anton Bruckner (31) performs at mass for the first time as Dom-und- Stadtpfarrkirchen-Organist in Linz, for the Feast of the Immaculate Conception.
December 18, 1855:
Provisional organist Anton Bruckner (31) applies for the permanent post at Linz Cathedral.
January 25, 1856:
A final examination for post of cathedral organist in Linz is won by Anton Bruckner (31). It is his first professional musical appointment. See 13 November 1855.
April 25, 1856:
Anton Bruckner (31) is officially appointed permanent organist at Linz Cathedral.
May 14, 1856:
Anton Bruckner (31) officially enters duties as organist at Linz Cathedral.
October 7, 1856:
A setting of the Ave Maria (I) in F for soloists, chorus, cello, and organ by Anton Bruckner (32) is performed for the first time, at St. Florian.
July 17, 1857:
A revised version of Heil, Vater! dir zum hohen Feste, a cantata by Anton Bruckner (32) to words of Marinelli, is performed for the first time, at St. Florian.
July 10, 1858:
Anton Bruckner (33) passes examinations in harmony, figured bass, and organ with Simon Sechter.
August 12, 1859:
Anton Bruckner (34) passes a course in elementary counterpoint with his Vienna instructor Simon Sechter. The instruction was carried on largely by correspondence.
April 3, 1860:
Anton Bruckner (35) passes a course in advanced counterpoint with his Vienna instructor Simon Sechter, largely through correspondence.
September 7, 1860:
Anton Bruckner (36) becomes chorus master of the singing society “Frohsinn” in Linz.
February 11, 1861:
Am Grabe for unaccompanied male chorus by Anton Bruckner (36) to words of Marinelli and von der Mattig, is performed for the first time, by Liedertafel “Frohsinn” in Linz, directed by the composer.
March 26, 1861:
Anton Bruckner (36) completes his studies in canon and fugue with his Vienna instructor Simon Sechter, largely through correspondence.
May 12, 1861:
A setting of the Ave Maria (II) in F major for unaccompanied chorus by Anton Bruckner (36) is performed for the first time, in the Linz Cathedral in honor of Liedertafel “Frohsinn”, directed by the composer.
September 19, 1861:
Anton Bruckner (37) travels to Salzburg to audition for the post of director of the Dom-Musikverein and Mozarteum. He will conduct the cathedral choir over the next two days.
November 19, 1861:
A three-man committee of Vienna Conservatory meets to consider the candidacy of Anton Bruckner (37) for a teaching position. They decide to meet in two days to hear him improvise on a given theme.
November 21, 1861:
Anton Bruckner (37) improvises a fugue on a given eight-bar theme at the organ of the Piaristenkirche, Vienna for the qualification of “Teacher of Harmony and Counterpoint at Conservatoria.” After the test, one of the adjudicators remarks, “He should have examined us.”
December 13, 1861:
Afferentur regi for chorus, three trombones, and organ by Anton Bruckner (37) is performed for the first time, at St. Florian.
December 14, 1861:
Psalm 146 for solo voices, double chorus, and orchestra by Anton Bruckner (37) is performed for the first time, at St. Florian.
December 16, 1861:
Du bist wie eine blume for unaccompanied chorus by Anton Bruckner (37) to words of Heine, is performed for the first time, in Linz.
May 1, 1862:
Anton Bruckner’s (37) cantata for the laying of the foundation stone for the new Linz Cathdedral, Preiset denn Herrn, to words of Pammesberger, is performed for the first time.
November 20, 1864:
Mass no.1 in d minor for solo voices, chorus, orchestra, and organ by Anton Bruckner (40) is performed for the first time, in Linz Cathedral, directed by the composer.
November 24, 1864:
Herbstlied for two sopranos, male chorus, and piano by Anton Bruckner (40) to words of von Sallet is performed for the first time, in Linz, the composer conducting.
December 11, 1864:
Um Mitternacht for alto, male chorus, and piano by Anton Bruckner (40) to words of Prutz, is performed for the first time, in Linz, the composer conducting.
February 5, 1865:
Trauungslied for male chorus and organ by Anton Bruckner (40) to words of Proschko is performed for the first time, in the Stadtpfarrkirche, Linz, the composer at the keyboard.
June 5, 1865:
Germanenzug for male chorus and brass by Anton Bruckner (40) to words of Silberstein is performed for the first time, in Linz for a competition during the Oberösterreichisch-Salzburgisches Sängerbundesfest. The awards are given out based on audience applause. Bruckner wins second prize.
June 10, 1865:
Tristan und Isolde, a music-drama by Richard Wagner (52) to his own words, is performed for the first time, in the Königliches Hof-und Nationaltheater, Munich, conducted by Hans von Bülow. Although there is some hissing, it is a resounding success. Anton Bruckner (40), who came to Munich to see the planned premiere in May, will see the third performance.
August 15, 1865:
Die Legende von der heiligen Elisabeth, an oratorio by Franz Liszt (53) to words of Roquette, is performed for the first time, in Pest, directed by the composer in the habit of a Franciscan monk. This is to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Pest Conservatory of Music. Anton Bruckner (40) has traveled from Linz for the premiere.
August 16, 1866:
Anton Bruckner (41) writes to Josefine Lang, a 17-year-old daughter of a butcher, proposing marriage. She will refuse.
February 10, 1867:
The music of Anton Bruckner (42) is heard for the first time in Vienna with a performance of the Mass in d in the Hofburgkapelle.
May 8, 1867:
Anton Bruckner (42) enters a sanitorium in Bad Kreuzen suffering from nervous anxiety and severe depression. He will stay for three months.
August 8, 1867:
Anton Bruckner (42) leaves the sanitorium at Bad Kreuzen, apparently restored to health.
November 16, 1867:
At a faculty meeting at the University of Vienna, the request of Anton Bruckner (43) that a position in musical composition be created is denied.
January 15, 1868:
Anton Bruckner (43) becomes director of Liedertafel “Frohsinn” in Linz for the second time.
January 16, 1868:
Anton Bruckner (43) writes to his friend Rudolf Weinwurm, “Even during my illness, this was the only thing that was close to my heart: it was Mexico, Maximilian. I want at all cost to see the body of Maximilian.” He asks Weinwurm to find out if the body will lie in state visibly. Maximilian’s remains will be placed on view, but it is not known if Bruckner goes to see them.
February 13, 1868:
Vaterländisches Weinlied for male chorus by Anton Bruckner (43) to words of Silberstein, is performed for the first time, in Linz, directed by the composer.
April 4, 1868:
The conclusion of Act 3 to Die Meistersinger by Richard Wagner (54) is performed for the first time, in Linz, conducted by Anton Bruckner (43). Also on the program is the premiere of Bruckner’s own Vaterlandslied O könnt’ ich dich beglücken for tenor, bass, and male chorus to words of Silberstein.
May 9, 1868:
Symphony no.1 (Linz version) by Anton Bruckner (43) is performed for the first time, in the Linz Redoutensaal, conducted by the composer.
May 10, 1868:
Inveni David (I) for male chorus and four trombones by Anton Bruckner (43) is performed for the first time, in Linz, directed by the composer.
May 17, 1868:
Das Frauenherz, die Mannesbrust for chorus by Anton Bruckner (43) to words of Kerschbaum is performed for the first time, in Linz.
June 20, 1868:
Anton Bruckner (43) is informed that his application for a faculty position at Vienna Conservatory has been approved.
June 28, 1868:
Anton Bruckner (43) writes to the Vienna Conservatory accepting his appointment and requesting a formalization of the arrangements.
July 6, 1868:
Anton Bruckner (43) is officially appointed lecturer for figured bass, counterpoint and organ at the Konservatorium der Gesellschaft der Musikfreunde, Vienna.
October 1, 1868:
Anton Bruckner (44) takes up duties as teacher of theory and organ at the Konservatorium der Gesellshaft der Musikfreunde, Vienna.
September 29, 1869:
Mass no.2 in e for chorus, woodwinds, and brass by Anton Bruckner (45) is performed for the first time, outside Linz Cathedral for the consecration of the Votivkapelle.
October 29, 1869:
A setting of Locus iste for chorus by Anton Bruckner (45) is performed for the first time, in the Votivkapelle des neuen Doms, Linz.
May 15, 1870:
Mitternacht for tenor, male chorus, and piano by Anton Bruckner (45) to words of J. Mendelssohn is performed for the first time, in Linz.
July 18, 1870:
Anton Bruckner (45), already in Vienna for two years, resigns his posts in Linz.
October 18, 1870:
Anton Bruckner (46) is appointed teacher of theory, piano, and organ at the St. Anna Teacher Training Institute for Men and Women in Vienna.
November 7, 1870:
The Austrian Minister of Education informs Anton Bruckner (46) that his application for financial help has been accepted and he will receive 100 florins.
November 22, 1870:
In Vienna, Anton Bruckner (46) receives word that his birthplace, Ansfelden, has granted him honorary citizenship due to his increasing reputation.
April 18, 1871:
Anton Bruckner (46) participates in a competition in Vienna to determine who will represent Austria in demonstration concerts on the new Willis organ in Albert Hall, London.
April 24, 1871:
Anton Bruckner (46) is informed that he has won a competition in Vienna to determine who will represent Austria in demonstration concerts on the new Willis organ in Albert Hall, London.
July 29, 1871:
Anton Bruckner (46) arrives in London. He has been selected to represent his country at the International Exhibition, along with organists from several other nations. In the evening he goes to the hall to practice but is told the fires for the steam engines have been allowed to go out. There is still enough steam for him to practice and, after hearing Bruckner play, the hall manager orders the fires relit. His abilities attract a little audience which listens to him well into the evening. The British press, fuming at the presence of so many foreigners, affords him only faint praise. Ten recitals, however, will produce loud applause.
December 31, 1871:
Anton Rubinstein (42) conducts a concert in Vienna which includes the first part of Christus, in the presence of the composer, Franz Liszt (60) and with Anton Bruckner (47) playing the organ part.
June 16, 1872:
Mass no.3 in f minor for soloists, chorus, orchestra, and organ by Anton Bruckner (47) is performed for the first time, in the Augustinerkirche, Vienna under the direction of the composer.
November 10, 1872:
Johannes Brahms (39) conducts his first performance with the Vienna Gesellschaftskonzerte, beginning a championing of the music of JS Bach (†122) and GF Handel (†113). The organist is Anton Bruckner (48). His interest in Baroque music is not shared by his audience.
October 26, 1873:
The original version of Anton Bruckner’s (49) Symphony no.2 is performed for the first time, in Vienna, conducted by the composer. It is the first orchestral work by Bruckner to be performed in the capital. Reaction is mixed, but Bruckner is pleased. See 20 February 1876.
December 8, 1873:
Christus factus est for chorus, strings, and three trombones by Anton Bruckner (49), is performed for the first time, at the Vienna Hofburgkapelle, the composer conducting.
April 18, 1874:
For a second time, Anton Bruckner (50) applies to the Austrian Ministry of Education and culture, requesting that a teaching position in theory be created for him at the University of Vienna.
October 31, 1874:
The faculty of philosophy at the University of Vienna vote against the request of Anton Bruckner (51) that a teaching position in music theory be created for him. See 18 April 1874.
November 18, 1875:
Anton Bruckner (51) is informed that he has been appointed an unpaid teacher in harmony and counterpoint at the University of Vienna.
February 20, 1876:
The revised version of Anton Bruckner’s (51) Symphony no.2 is performed for the first time, in Vienna conducted by the composer. See 26 October 1873.
April 24, 1876:
Anton Bruckner (51) gives his first oration as lecturer in harmony and counterpoint at Vienna University. The post is without salary.
April 29, 1876:
Anton Bruckner (51) writes to Lord Chamberlain Prince Constantin Hohenlohe-Schillingsfürst, requesting appointment to the vacant position of assistant music director of the Vienna Hofkapelle. He will not be successful.
August 13, 1876:
A glittering array of political leaders and artists, including Kaiser Wilhelm I of Germany and Emperor Pedro II of Brazil, gathers in Bayreuth for the opening of the Festspielhaus. Attending musicians include Franz Liszt (64), Anton Bruckner (51), Camille Saint-Saëns (40), Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky (36), Edvard Grieg (33), and Arthur Foote (23). Friedrich Nietzsche is also there. The first production of the complete Der Ring des Nibelungen, Bühnenfestspiel für drei Tage und einen Vorabend, by Richard Wagner (63) to his own words opens in the Bayreuth Festspielhaus with a production of Das Rheingold.
October 1, 1877:
Gustav Mahler (17) begins studies at the University of Vienna and the harmony class of Anton Bruckner (53).
October 28, 1877:
Nachruf for male chorus and organ by Anton Bruckner (53) to words of Mattig is performed for the first time, for the unveiling of a memorial plaque at St. Florian. The composer plays the organ.
December 16, 1877:
The second version of the Symphony no.3 by Anton Bruckner (53) is performed for the first time, in the Großer Musikverein, Vienna, directed by the composer. Bruckner, a substitute conductor, is not up to the demands of his work. The musicians play badly and the audience is divided, with the “cons” outnumbering the “pros.” Many of the audience leave during the last movement and only about 25, including Gustav Mahler (17) and several of his fellow Vienna Conservatory students, are left at the end. With the last note, the disgruntled musicians immediately depart. See 21 December 1890.
January 3, 1878:
Anton Bruckner (53) is granted a permanent appointment as court organist, in Vienna.
January 24, 1878:
Anton Bruckner (53) is named a full member of the Vienna Hofkapelle, a salaried position.
June 4, 1878:
A setting of Tota pulchra es for tenor, chorus, and organ by Anton Bruckner (53) is performed for the first time, in the Votivkapelle des neuen Doms, Linz.
August 28, 1879:
Two sacred works by Anton Bruckner (54) are performed for the first time, at St. Florian: Inveni David for unison chorus and organ, and Os justi for chorus.
February 4, 1880:
The second and third movements of the Symphony no.4 by Anton Bruckner (55) are performed for the first time, in a four-hand piano arrangement, in Vienna. See 7 October 1880 and 20 February 1881.
October 7, 1880:
The first movement of the Symphony no.4 by Anton Bruckner (55) is performed for the first time, in a four-hand piano arrangement, in Vienna. See 4 February 1880 and 20 February 1881.
November 28, 1880:
The Austrian Minister of Education and Culture informs Anton Bruckner (56) that his request for a regular annual salary has been approved.
February 20, 1881:
The second version of the Symphony no.4 by Anton Bruckner (56) is performed for the first time, privately by the Akademischer Wagner-Verein, in Vienna. See 4 February 1880, 22 January 1888, 12 December 1909, and 20 September 1975.
November 17, 1881:
The first three movements of a String Quintet by Anton Bruckner (57) are performed for the first time, in Vienna. See 7 May 1883.
December 8, 1881:
Shortly before the beginning of the second Viennese performance of Les contes d'Hoffmann in the Ringtheater, fire breaks out on stage. Since the doors open inward, many are killed in the crush. About 650 people are burned, asphyxiated, or trampled to death. Johann Strauss (56) attended the Vienna premiere last night. Anton Bruckner (57), who keeps all his musical manuscripts in an apartment next door, rushes to the scene to save his work. By the time he gets there, the fire is under control. Among the dead are Heinrich Nachod and his wife, aunt and uncle of Arnold Schoenberg (7). Their two children will be adopted by the Schoenbergs.
July 26, 1882:
Richard Wagner's (69) Bühnenweihfestspiel Parsifal to his own words is performed for the first time, in the Bayreuth Festspielhaus. Among the audience is a passionate Wagnerian named Anton Bruckner (57). The boys’ chorus has been prepared by Engelbert Humperdinck (37).
February 11, 1883:
The middle two movements of the Symphony no.6 by Anton Bruckner (58) are performed for the first time, in Vienna. The audience, which includes Johannes Brahms (49), gives the work a great ovation. The press is mixed. See 26 February 1899.
May 7, 1883:
String Quintet by Anton Bruckner (59) is performed completely for the first time, in the Bösendorfersaal, Vienna. See 17 November 1881.
June 10, 1883:
Sängerbund for male chorus by Anton Bruckner (59) is performed for the first time, in Wels.
August 21, 1884:
A Prelude in C for organ by Anton Bruckner (59) is performed for the first time, in Kremsmünster.
September 11, 1884:
A setting of Christus factus est (III) for chorus by Anton Bruckner (60) is performed for the first time, in the Vienna Hofburgkapelle.
September 26, 1884:
Anton Vergeiner publishes an article about Anton Bruckner (60) in the Linz Tagepost. He attacks Viennese critics for not giving proper recognition to Bruckner.
December 30, 1884:
Symphony no.7 by Anton Bruckner (60) is performed for the first time, in Leipzig. The applause lasts 15 minutes as the composer receives two laurel wreaths. Critical response is mixed. It is his first true international recognition.
January 22, 1885:
Anton Bruckner (60) is elected an honorary member of the Akademischer Richard-Wagner-Verein in Vienna.
May 2, 1885:
A setting of the Te Deum for chorus and two pianos by Anton Bruckner (60) is performed for the first time, in the Musikverein, Vienna, conducted by the composer. See 10 January 1886.
December 8, 1885:
A setting of Virga Jesse for unaccompanied chorus by Anton Bruckner (61) is performed for the first time, in the Vienna Hofburgkapelle.
January 10, 1886:
The Te Deum of Anton Bruckner (61) is performed for the first time with orchestra, in Vienna to great applause. See 2 May 1885.
March 25, 1886:
A setting of Ave regina caelorum for unison chorus and organ by Anton Bruckner (61) is performed for the first time, in Klosterneuberg.
April 11, 1886:
Trösterin Musik for male chorus and organ by Anton Bruckner (61) to words of Seuffert is performed for the first time, in Vienna.
April 15, 1886:
The second setting of Um Mitternacht for tenor and male chorus by Anton Bruckner (61) to words of Prutz is performed for the first time, in Linz.
July 9, 1886:
Anton Bruckner (61) is awarded the Knight Cross of the Order of Franz Joseph.
August 4, 1886:
At the request of Cosima Wagner, Anton Bruckner (61) performs at a Requiem mass in honor of Franz Liszt in Bayreuth. He improvises themes from Parsifal at the organ. No music of Liszt is heard.
September 23, 1886:
Anton Bruckner (62) is received by Emperor Franz Joseph II. He thanks the Emperor for the Knight Cross of the Order of Franz Joseph. According to the story, Franz Joseph asks Bruckner if there is anything he can do for him. Bruckner asks that His Highness forbid the critic Eduard Hanslick from writing bad things about him.
April 20, 1887:
The Symphony no.5 by Anton Bruckner (55) is performed for the first time, in a four-hand piano arrangement, in Vienna. See 7 October 1880, 20 February 1881, and 8 April 1894.
June 10, 1887:
Anton Bruckner (62) is elected an honorary member of the Society for the Promotion of Music in Amsterdam.
January 22, 1888:
The third version of Anton Bruckner’s (63) Symphony no.4 is performed for the first time, in Vienna. It is an astounding success. See 20 February 1881 and 12 December 1909.
June 21, 1888:
The remains of Ludwig van Beethoven (†61) are exhumed from the Währinger Cemetery and reinterred in the Zentralfriedhof, Vienna. Among those witnessing the event is Anton Bruckner (63).
July 12, 1890:
Anton Bruckner (65) is granted leave from his position at the Konservatorium der Gesellschaft der Musikfreunde because of a “high degree of nervousness.”
July 31, 1890:
Anton Bruckner (65) performs at the wedding of Archduchess Marie Valerie, the daughter of Emperor Franz Joseph II, in Ischl.
October 31, 1890:
The Landtag of Upper Austria votes Anton Bruckner (66) an annual gift of 400 florins.
December 21, 1890:
The third version of Symphony no.3 by Anton Bruckner (66) is performed for the first time, in Vienna. The composer is both booed and cheered by an audience which contains a greatly impressed Jean Sibelius (25). Outside the theatre, Sibelius gets into a fight with some Brahms (57) supporters and injures his foot. See 16 December 1887.
January 15, 1891:
Träumen und Wachen for tenor and male chorus by Anton Bruckner (66) to words of Grillparzer is performed for the first time, in Vienna conducted by the composer during celebrations at the University of Vienna to mark the centennial of the poet. On the same day, he receives official notification from the Vienna Conservatory of his resignation and thanks for his 22 years of service. The Gesellschaft der Musikfreunde also informs him that it has elected him an honorary member.
November 7, 1891:
The University of Vienna presents an honorary Doctor of Philosophy to Anton Bruckner (67). In conferring the degree, the rector states, “I--the Rector magnificus of the University--bow before the former assistant school teacher of Windhaag.” At Bruckner’s request, the citation refers to him as a “symphonist.”
December 13, 1891:
The Deutsches Volksblatt of Vienna publishes what it says is the “formal address by August Göllerich not delivered at the Bruckner celebration.” Göllerich was invited to speak at a student gathering at the University of Vienna to celebrate the conferral of an honorary degree on Anton Bruckner (67). The university then withdrew its invitation because of Göllerich’s outspoken anti-semitism.
December 13, 1891:
The “Vienna” version of the Symphony no.1 by Anton Bruckner (67) is performed for the first time, in Vienna. It receives “a completely decisive success.” It is dedicated to the University of Vienna in gratitude for the honorary doctorate he received last month. See 9 May 1868.
March 15, 1892:
A setting of Vexilla regis for chorus by Anton Bruckner (67) is performed for the first time, at St. Florian.
June 5, 1892:
Das deutsche Lied for male chorus and brass by Anton Bruckner (67) to words of Fels is performed for the first time, in Salzburg.
October 28, 1892:
Anton Bruckner (68) leaves his position at the Vienna Hofkapelle following a serious illness.
November 13, 1892:
A setting of Psalm 150 for soprano, chorus, and orchestra by Anton Bruckner (68) is performed for the first time, in Vienna.
November 22, 1892:
Symphony no.8 by Anton Bruckner (55) is performed for the first time, in a four-hand piano arrangement, in Vienna. See 18 December 1892.
December 18, 1892:
The “Schalk” version of Symphony no.8 by Anton Bruckner (68) is performed for the first time, in Vienna. Present are members of the royal family, Crown Princess Stephanie and Archduchess Valerie, as well as Johannes Brahms (59), Johann Strauss (67), Hugo Wolf (32), and Siegfried Wagner. It is among Bruckner’s most successful nights in Vienna. The press is almost universal in their praise. See 22 November 1892, 5 July 1939, and 2 September 1973.
March 11, 1893:
Tafellied for male chorus by Anton Bruckner (68) to words of Ptak, is performed for the first time, in Vienna.
October 8, 1893:
Helgoland for male chorus and orchestra by Anton Bruckner (69) to words of Silberstein is performed for the first time, in the Winterreitschule, Vienna.
November 10, 1893:
Anton Bruckner (69) signs his will in Vienna.
April 8, 1894:
The “Schalk” version of Symphony no.5 by Anton Bruckner (69) is performed for the first time, in Graz. The composer is too ill to attend. In fact, he will never hear his Fifth Symphony. See 20 April 1887.
July 11, 1894:
Anton Bruckner (69) is made an honorary citizen of Linz and receives the freedom of the city.
November 5, 1894:
Anton Bruckner (70) delivers his last lecture at the University of Vienna.
November 29, 1894:
The first movement of the Symphony no.6 by Anton Bruckner (55) is performed for the first time, in a four-hand piano arrangement, in Vienna. See 26 February 1899.
July 4, 1895:
Anton Bruckner (70) moves into the custodian’s house of the Belvedere Palace, Vienna, the apartments having been made available by Emperor Franz Joseph II through the intercession of Archduchess Marie Valerie. Bruckner’s doctor has advised him to find ground floor living space.
January 12, 1896:
Anton Bruckner (71) attends a performance of his music for the last time, in Vienna. He is carried into the hall to hear his own Te Deum, Das Liebesmahl der Apostel by Richard Wagner (†12) and Richard Strauss’ (31) Till Eulenspiegel.
March 29, 1896:
Anton Bruckner (71) makes his last public appearance, at a Palm Sunday concert in Vienna.
October 11, 1896:
15:00 Joseph Anton Bruckner dies of heart disease in his home, the custodian’s house of the Belvedere Palace, Vienna, Austro-Hungarian Empire, aged 72 years, one month, and seven days.
October 14, 1896:
A funeral in memory of Anton Bruckner takes place in the Karlskirche, Vienna. Hugo Wolf (36) is denied entry as he has no ticket. Johannes Brahms (63) arrives late, stands at the door and mumbles what is perceived to be “Never mind-soon my coffin” and leaves. The remains are taken to the train station for transportation to St. Florian.
October 15, 1896:
Anton Bruckner’s earthly remains are laid to rest in a crypt beneath the great organ of St. Florian near Linz, as was his wish.
December 17, 1898:
The second setting of Der Abendhimmel for male chorus by Anton Bruckner (†2) to words of Zedlitz, is performed for the first time, in Vienna.
February 26, 1899:
Symphony no.6 by Anton Bruckner (†2) is performed completely for the first time, in Vienna conducted by Gustav Mahler (38). Mahler makes some cuts and changes some of the orchestration. Nevertheless, it is very well received. See 11 February 1883 and 14 March 1901.
July 4, 1900:
Der Abendhimmel (first setting in A flat), a work for unaccompanied male chorus by Anton Bruckner (†3) is performed for the first time, at Linz.
March 14, 1901:
The complete Symphony no.6 by Anton Bruckner (†4) is performed for the first time, in Stuttgart. See 11 February 1883 and 26 February 1899.
March 13, 1902:
Das hohe Lied, for two tenors, baritone, male chorus, and orchestra, by Anton Bruckner (†5) to words of von der Mattig, is performed for the first time, in Vienna.
February 5, 1903:
Im April, a song for alto and piano by Anton Bruckner (†6) to words of Geibel, is performed for the first time, in Vienna.
February 11, 1903:
The Löwe version of the Symphony no.9 of Anton Bruckner (†6) is performed for the first time, in Vienna. See 2 April 1932.
January 23, 1904:
The Intermezzo for string quartet by Anton Bruckner (†7) is performed for the first time, in Vienna.
April 4, 1906:
A setting of Psalm 114 for chorus and three trombones by Anton Bruckner (†9) is performed for the first time, in Linz.
December 12, 1909:
The scherzo from the original version of Anton Bruckner’s (†13) Fourth Symphony is performed for the first time, in Linz.
March 18, 1911:
Anton Bruckner’s (†14) Abendzauber op.57 for baritone, male chorus, three yodelers, and four horns, is performed for the first time, in Vienna.
November 12, 1912:
Anton Bruckner’s (†16) motet for chorus, three trombones, and organ, Ecce sacerdos, is performed for the first time, in Vöcklabruck.
October 31, 1913:
The second movement of the Symphony in f “Study Symphony” by Anton Bruckner (†17) is performed for the first time, in Vienna. See 18 March 1923 and 12 October 1924.
September 8, 1921:
The Overture in g minor for orchestra by Anton Bruckner (†24) is performed for the first time, in Klosterneuberg 58 years after it was composed.
October 11, 1921:
Psalm 22 in E flat for chorus and piano and Das Lied vom deutschen Vaterland for male chorus, both by Anton Bruckner, are performed for the first time, at St. Florian on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the composer’s death.
March 18, 1923:
The first, second, and fourth movements of Anton Bruckner’s (†27) Symphony in f minor are performed for the first time, at Klosterneuberg, 61 years after they were composed. See 31 October 1913 and 12 October 1924.
May 17, 1924:
The third and fourth movements of the Symphony no.0 by Anton Bruckner (†27) are performed for the first time, at Klosterneuburg, 65 years after their composition. See 12 October 1924.
September 24, 1924:
During the centennial year of his birth, Apollo-Marsch for woodwinds, brass, and percussion by Anton Bruckner (†27) is performed for the first time, in the Stadtkapelle, Vöcklabruck, 62 years after it was composed.
October 12, 1924:
Three works by Anton Bruckner (†28) are performed in Klosterneuberg for the first time during the centennial year of his birth: March for orchestra in d minor, Three Pieces for orchestra, the third movement of his Symphony in f minor, and the complete Symphony no.0, 62, 62, 61, and 65 years after their composition, respectively. See 17 May 1924, 31 October 1913, 18 March 1923.
October 13, 1924:
During the centennial year of his birth, Anton Bruckner’s (†28) Piece in B flat for orchestra is performed for the first time, in Vienna, 62 years after being written.
April 12, 1925:
A setting of Tantum ergo by Anton Bruckner (†28) is performed for the first time, in Vöcklabruck.
March 14, 1926:
A setting of Psalm 112 for two choruses and orchestra by Anton Bruckner (†29) is performed for the first time, in Vöcklabruck, 63 years after it was composed.
April 2, 1932:
The original version of Anton Bruckner’s (†35) Symphony no.9 is performed for the first time, in Munich. See 11 February 1903.
October 23, 1935:
The original version of Symphony no.5 by Anton Bruckner (†39) is performed for the first time, in Munich, 60 years after it was composed. See 8 April 1894.
June 6, 1937:
Adolf Hitler and Joseph Goebbels visit Regensburg to dedicate a monument to the memory of Anton Bruckner (†40). Goebbels gives a speech praising Bruckner as a champion of German art.
July 5, 1939:
A composite of the two earlier versions of the Symphony no.8 by Anton Bruckner (†42) is performed for the first time, in Hamburg.
May 1, 1945:
Listeners to German radio are told to stand by for an important announcement. This is followed by excerpts from Götterdämmerung and the slow movement of Anton Bruckner's (†48) Seventh Symphony (composed for the death of Wagner (†62)). Finally, Admiral Dönitz, speaking from Hamburg, announces the death of Hitler. He also appeals that the fight against Bolshevism be continued. Hans Werner Henze (18) is one of a small group of soldiers in a village near Esbjerg, Denmark who listens to the broadcast. They light a candle and celebrate surviving the war. In Garmisch, Richard Strauss (81) writes in his diary, “...from 1 May onwards the most terrible period of human history came to an end, the twelve-year reign of bestiality, ignorance, and anti-culture under the greatest criminals, during which Germany’s 2,000 years of cultural evolution met its doom and irreplaceable monuments of architecture and works of art were destroyed by a criminal rabble of soldiers. Accursed be technology!”
December 1, 1946:
The first version of the Symphony no.3 by Anton Bruckner (†50) is performed for the first time, in Dresden, 73 years after it was composed.
February 15, 1951:
A String Quartet in c minor by Anton Bruckner (†54) is performed for the first time, in Berlin, 89 years after it was composed.
May 2, 1954:
The first movement of the original version of Anton Bruckner’s (†57) Symphony no.8 is performed for the first time, 67 years after it was composed. See 18 December 1892 and 2 September 1973.
September 2, 1973:
The “first definitive version” of Anton Bruckner’s (†76) Symphony no.8 is performed for the first time, over the airwaves of the BBC, 86 years after it was completed. See 18 December 1892 and 5 July 1939.
December 1, 1974:
Anton Bruckner’s (†78) Mass “Kronstorfer” is performed for the first time, at St. Florian, 90 years after it was composed.
September 20, 1975:
The original version of Anton Bruckner’s (†78) Symphony no.4 “Romantic” is performed completely for the first time, in Linz 101 years after it was composed. See 12 December 1909.
May 23, 1980:
An added Adagio for the first version of the Symphony no.3 by Anton Bruckner (†83) is performed for the first time, in Vienna, 104 years after it was composed.
June 3, 1987:
Variations on a Theme by Anton Bruckner op.19 for piano by Lowell Liebermann (26) is performed for the first time, in Charleston, South Carolina.
October 26, 1993:
A fragment from an Adagio movement for the Symphony no.1 by Anton Bruckner (†97) is performed for the first time, in Essen.