Symphony No. 101 in D Major, “The Clock”
Franz Joseph Haydn (1732-1809)

THE STORY

Joseph Haydn enjoyed one of the most celebrated careers in the history of Western classical music during his lifetime—a rarity among composers, who often gained their status as legends posthumously. By his late career, Haydn’s reputation as a composer had reached London, where his music was revered and he received treatment similar to a modern-day pop star. Aware of his popularity there, he made two separate visits to the city: from 1791-1792 and again from 1794-1795.

Over the course of the two visits he introduced his final twelve symphonies, Nos. 93-104, which have since been dubbed “The London Symphonies.” In them, Haydn’s personality and creativity shine—perhaps from the confidence instilled by the adoring London crowds. Generations of composers went on to emulate the structure he codified in these final symphonies.

Haydn’s 101st Symphony had its premiere in the Hanover Square Rooms on March 3, 1794. A review of the performance gushed, “…the inexhaustible, the wonderful, the sublime HAYDN! The first two movements were encored; and the character that pervaded the whole composition was heartfelt joy.”

LISTEN FOR

• The dark and moody introduction in the first movement, an unusually tragic opening for a Haydn symphony
• The constant ticking pattern in the second movement, which begins with woodwinds and plucked strings—earning this symphony its nickname, “The Clock”
• The flute solo in the middle section of the third movement over the pulsing strings, like a jolly singer accompanied by an accordion
• Multiple variations on a single theme and a fugue bringing complexity to the finale after the simple, almost child-like dancing music of the of the previous movement

INSTRUMENTATION

Two flutes, two oboes, two clarinets, two bassoons, two horns, two trumpets, timpani, strings