The pianist and teacher Carl Reinecke whose pupils included numerous well-known musicians such as Bruch, Grieg, Karg-Elert and Albéniz was held in great esteem by Liszt and Berlioz. As a composer, Reinecke adhered to classical principles and declared himself an admirer of Mendelssohn and Schumann.

His Concerto for Harp and Orchestra Op. 182 is a virtuoso work for an instrument which had fallen into neglect during his lifetime; the quality and expressiveness of this composition stand comparison with Mozart’s Concerto for Flute and Harp. The Symphony No. 3 Op. 227 was acclaimed by contemporary critics as a work with a “youthful atmosphere”, ornate structure and magnificent instrumentation.