Haydn Symphony No.94 2nd Movt - Listening Guide

Haydn Symphony No.94, G Major (Surprise) (Mvt. 2) Instrumentation: flutes (2), oboes (2), bassoons (2), French horns (2), trumpets (2), timpani, strings (typical classical orchestra) Form: theme and variations

1) The main theme (A) is presented by the violins. Note the balanced phrases which make up the theme. Also, listen carefully for the accented chord which gives the work its title, "Surprise," at :32.

2) The first variation (A1) continues in the violins. Note however, the addition of timpani (opening beat), woodwinds, and a distinctive countermelody added above the main theme.

3) Variation 2 (A2) shifts to a minor key. Note the change in instrumentation in the second phrase and the inversion of a short part of the theme (marked in brackets) in the second phrase.

4) In the third variation (A3) Haydn changes the rhythmic character of the theme entirely. The underlying structure of the theme, however, may be seen in the illustration in brackets (not actually played).

5) The original theme is played in the strings while a countermelody is presented above by the flute and oboe.

6) Variation 4 (A4) consists of the main theme presented by brass and woodwinds accented by the low strings. A running countermelody is also provided by the strings. 7) The strings present the theme in a rhythmically varied form as illustrated below:

8) A short closing section is provided with the oboe presenting the theme softly (p) for the last time.