Music Appreciation 3e Kamien
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Joseph Haydn (1732-1809)

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

CD 2, Tracks 10-15, Duration 6:14

10) The main theme (A) is presented by the violins. Note the balanced phrases which make up the theme. Section A is repeated with pizzicato string accompaniment.

:32 Accented chord which gives the work its title, "Surprise."
:34 Continuation of theme in violins.

11) Variation 1 (A¹) Continues in the violins. Note however, the addition of timpani (opening beat), woodwinds, and a distinctive countermelody added above the main theme.

12) Variation 2 (A²) Shift to a minor key. Note the change in instrumentation in the second phrase.

13) Variation 3 (A³) Oboe, theme in faster repeated notes, major key.

:16 Flute and oboe, legato countermelody above staccato theme in violins.

14) Variation 4 (A⁴) Theme in brasses and woodwinds, fast notes in violins. Violins legato version of theme, dotted rhythm (long-short).

15) Closing Section. Theme in oboe, gently dissonant chords in strings, flute joins, conclusion.

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