Haydn's Theme from the Surprise Symphony

Called the Surprise Symphony in English, The Symphony No. 94 (in G major, Hoboken 1/94) is called the Symphony mit dem Paukenschlag (Symphony with the Kettledrum Stroke) in German. It is the second of Haydn's so-called London symphonies (numbers 93-104).

Franz Joseph Haydn (1732 - 1809) was a prolific and extraordinarily influential Austrian composer. He virtually invented the symphony and the string quartet; and he was instrumental in the development of the piano trio and in the evolution of sonata form. He wrote masterpieces in almost all genres.

Haydn's music is remarkable for its melodic and harmonic invention, distinctive and original ideas, sublime lyricism, and dramatic profundity.

Tutorial at Various Tempos

Sheetmusic at 8notes.com

Surprise Symphony Audio CDs