Bruch had intended the piece to form the first movement of a projected second violin concerto.
[a][1][2] However the composer found himself unable to progress beyond the first movement and chose to publish the work as a standalone concert piece dedicated to violinist Robert Heckmann who along with Joseph Joachim had assisted Bruch with the violin part.
However, perhaps due to personal issues, most notably a relationship with Amalie Heydweiller, which Christopher Fitfield speculates may have been the inspiration for the completed movement, Bruch found himself unable to complete the remaining movements.
[4] The composition is scored for solo violin and an orchestra comprising strings, 2 flutes, 2 oboes, 2 clarinets, 2 bassoons, 2 trumpets, 4 horns and timpani.
The composition consists of a single movement marked Andante sostenuto and typical performances last between 10 and 12 minutes.