Episode 9 of Classical Introductions features Symphony No. 94, also known as the Surprise Symphony, by Joseph Haydn. The recording I used for this episode can be downloaded here.

Haydn’s 108 symphonies show a gradual evolution of the form from the humble beginnings of the form to the foundation on which all symphonies after his time were built. Symphony No. 94 is one of his mature symphonies, from the twelve London Symphonies he wrote during his time in that city, and it features both his clever musical games as well as some moments of sublime inspiration. In many ways, this symphony is archetypal of the form, and is an ideal introduction to the Classical symphony.

The recording I used in this episode was made by the Boston Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Sergei Koussevitsky, in 1929, and has been released into the public domain. Once again, I am thankful to the users of the excellent online resource archive.org for making so many great early recordings available.

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