Program symphonies are best characterized by what feature?

Program symphonies are best characterized by their musical representation of a narrative. This type of orchestral composition goes beyond the traditional structure of a symphony to explore and depict a specific story, idea, or scene through music. Composers use thematic developments and orchestration to convey emotions and images associated with the narrative, allowing listeners to engage with the piece as a form of storytelling.

The focus on narrative distinguishes program symphonies from other forms, such as symphonies that strictly adhere to sonata form, which is more about the development of musical ideas than the portrayal of a story. While program symphonies may contain multiple movements, the key feature is not simply the number of movements, but how they collectively express a narrative arc. Additionally, although complex harmonies can be present, they are not a defining characteristic of program symphonies, as the primary emphasis lies in the connection between music and narrative imagery.