SYMPHONY NO. 94 BY HAYDN

Today’s piece: Haydn’s Symphony No.94 -a.k.a Surprise Symphony!⚡️

Haydn is regarded as “the father of symphony” because he kind of established the whole genre himself, and doing so, he composed 104+ symphonies that we know of! He spent most of his career as a court musician of the famous music loving noble family of Esterházy. Only in his later years, Haydn became freelancer, and he did not waste this opportunity! He travelled to other parts of Europe such as Paris and London, and composed pieces for these travels. He established his fan base in London, and the Surprise Symphony came from London Symphony collections! 😉 It is said that Haydn wrote this piece for an old man who came to all of his concert only to fall asleep, but the nick name came from the flautist who premiered this symphony.

The rhythm of the main theme is actually same as the rhythm of Twinkle Twinkle Little Star, and it’s interesting that Haydn used “theme and variation form” which is unusual form for the second movement. You know, Mozart, who was a good friend to Haydn, composed a theme and variation on Twinkle Twinkle Little Star for keyboard! 🤔 hmm maybe there’s a connection between these two..?? Also, it’s noteworthy to point out that this piece one of rare symphonies that the second movement is more famous than the first movement!

It’s very fun and humorous piece, and it will lighten up your day! So, listen to this piece today and smile~ 😊