For example, two of my favorites are the third movements of the Korngold and Sibelius violin concertos. I just skip the first two movements when I listen to these works. Guess I'm just a bumpkin when it comes to classical music.
Roger the Mole
Favorite Answer
I'm not sure about "unusual" but I can think of several works that have one very popular movement that's often played, but the complete work is seldom heard, indicating that the classical-loving public feels much as you do.
For examples:
the 2nd movement (Scherzo) from Litolff's Concerto Symphonique #4
the 5th movement (Toccata) from Widor's 5th Organ Symphony
the 4th movement (Adagietto) from Mahler's 5th Symphony
the 2nd movement of Barber's String Quartet, op. 11 (usually in the arrangement for full string orchestra)
(and I'm sure there are more, the names of which escape me just now)
Flying
Usually, the first and last movements are for technique, while the middle one is for lyricism. If you like the way the composer uses their techniques, you may like that movement more. If you like the way music flows, you might like the 2nd movement more. It all depends.
Anonymous
Of course it is normal for us human beings to like certain movements and dislike other works or pieces. Ling Ling however, listens to all pieces of classical music at once
Gregg
No, it's not. I like Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata, 1st and 3rd Movements but not the 2nd.
pianoman
No, it's not unusual. I believe most people who listen classical works have favorite movements including myself. Even though I have favorite movements I still listen to the entire work. To each his/her own.