Haydn: Symphony No. 94 in G Major, Hob. I:94

Description

The new score and performance material to Haydn's much performed "Surprise" symphony are based on the reliable Joseph Haydn Complete Edition. The nickname "Surprise" stems from the Andante second movement where a dynamic of ff with timpani and brass in measure 16 contrasts with the p melody leading up to it. One legend has it that Haydn expressly asked the timpani player to use large sticks and to strike the timpani without reservation, which resulted in an elderly woman fainting upon hearing the contrast. A more realistic interpretation has Haydn only wanting to attempt something new.