I. Adagio, D minor – Presto, D major:

It starts with a slow intro in minor, then flips to typical sonata form. For Haydn writing in minor seemed to be more about contrast than any kind of personal expression.

II. Andante, G major

This is where the symphony gets its name. The tick-tock theme is pretty obvious.

III. Menuetto. Allegretto, D major

Supposedly scholars, publishers, and musicians, not knowing Haydn’s humor, would often “correct” the trio of this minuet. Why that would be I have no idea, but maybe I’ll find out later.

IV. Finale. Vivace, D major

The finale of the work is a kind of rondo. Haydn vastly changes the main theme with each occurrence , something very unusual. He also builds a fugue into the last movement.

Instrumentation:

• 2 flutes, 2 oboes, 2 clarinets, 2 bassoons
• 2 horns, 2 trumpets
• timpani
• strings

Background:

This symphony premiered on 3 March 1794 with an orchestra of 60 personally gathered by Haydn’s colleague and friend Johann Peter Salomon, who also acted as concertmaster. A second performance took place a week later.