Unit XII The Classical Symphony

1
Unit XIIThe Classical Symphony

• Chapter 35
• Haydn and the Symphony

2
Franz Joseph Haydn

• 1732-1809
• attached to the household of the Prince of
  Esterhazy
• Expected to supervise all the music for the
  orchestra, opera, marionette, theatre, and the
  chapel

3
Music

• Instrumental
• Characterized by dynamic development of motives
  and themes.
• 104 symphonies -- late symphonies feature
  expanded orchestra with emphasis on brass,
  clarinets, and percussion
• 83 string quartets -- very influential
• divertimenti concertos, piano sonatas

4
Music

• Vocal
• Oratorios
• The Creation -- based on passages from the Bible
  and Miltons Paradise Lost
• The Seasons
• Incidental music for marionette plays
• Lieder
• Operas -- regaining favor

5
Listening -- Symphony No. 94 in G major (Surprise)

• Best-known of the 12 composed for his London
  concerts
• Known as the Surprise Symphony for the sudden
  fortissimo crashing chord in the slow movement,
  included by Haydn to startle a dozing audience
• Movement I -- sonata-allegro form
• Slow introduction -- a Haydn trademark
• Abrupt dynamic changes foreshadow Beethovens
  emotional style

6
Listening -- Symphony No. 94 in G major (Surprise)

• Movement II - Theme and four variations
• folk-like melody
• reveals Haydns trademark sense of humor
• See Listening Guide 20 pp. 195-196, (CD 1/ 79-85)
• C major (Subdominant)
• Movement III -- Minuet and Trio
• High-spirited allegro

7
Listening -- Symphony No. 94 in G major (Surprise)

• Movement IV -- Allegro molto
• Sonata allegro form
• a peasant dance