1757: Haydn: Symphony No. 4 in D major (5.5 Sweet Minutes), age 25

Mr. Peabody Says:

The finale is marked Tempo di menuetto, but it is not in the 3/4
time of a minuet. It is 3/8 time, which is typical of Haydn’s other early symphonic finales. Also, unlike other minuets, the movement lacks a central trio section. Apparently there were all kinds of minuets that were very unpredictable.

Listen to the 2nd movement first:

Andante in D minor – 5:30

We need a nickname: “5.5 Sweet Minutes”:

The first time I heard this 2nd movement, I had to play it again. There a haunting 5 and 1/2 minutes here:

Right in the middle of Haydn’s optimism and lighthearted music there are moments of incredible lyricism. Because of this amazing movement this whole symphony immediately became a favorite.

Adam Fischer:

  1. Presto – 6:12
  2. Andante in D minor – 5:30
  3. Tempo di menuetto – 5:55

Instruments:

  • 2 oboes
  • bassoon
  • 2 horns
  • strings
  • continuo

2 thoughts on “1757: Haydn: Symphony No. 4 in D major (5.5 Sweet Minutes), age 25

  1. After listening to the second movement I had to listen to the rest of symphony. I was not disappointed. The music is easy listening, light and cheerful.

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