- This is one of the last sympohonies composed by Mozart.
- The symphony is unquestionably one of Mozart's most greatly admired works, and it is frequently performed and recorded.
- Ludwig van Beethoven knew the symphony well, copying out 29 measures from the score in one of his sketchbooks.[8] It is thought that the opening theme of the last movement may have inspired Beethoven in composing the third movement of his Fifth Symphony. In addition, the opening movement of Beethoven's Piano Sonata Op. 2, No.1 in F minor seems to echo some of the rhythmic motives found in the final movement of the symphony.
- There is no completely solid documentary evidence that the premiere of the 40th Symphony took place in Mozart's lifetime. However, as Zaslaw (1983) points out, the circumstantial evidence that it was performed is very strong. On several occasions between the composition of the symphony and the composer's death, symphony concerts were given featuring Mozart's music, including concerts in which the program has survived, including a symphony, unidentified by date or key. These include:[3]
.....Dresden, 14 April 1789, during Mozart's Berlin journey
.....Leipzig, 12 May 1789, on the same trip
.....Frankfurt, 15 October 1790
