Overview
Introduction
The Symphony No. 102 in B♭ major, Hoboken I/102, is the tenth of the twelve London symphonies written by Joseph Haydn. Despite being lesser-known than many of the other works in the group, it is sometimes viewed as Haydn's best symphony.
Background
It was completed in 1794. It is now believed by many scholars to be the symphony at the premiere of which a chandelier fell from the ceiling of the concert hall in which it was performed. Fortunately, the audience escaped unharmed, supposedly because they had rushed the stage. It was long believed that this "Miracle" event took place at the premiere of his Symphony No. 96.
Movements
The work is in standard four-movement form and scored for two flutes, two oboes, two bassoons, two horns, two trumpets, timpani and strings.
- Largo — Vivace
- Adagio in F major
- Menuetto. Allegro
- Finale. Presto
The second movement is an orchestration of the second movement of the F♯ minor piano trio, Hob. XV/26, transposed from F♯ major to F major. The repeats in the trio are written out in the symphony, allowing for changes in the orchestration the second time through. The orchestral version also features a rolling triplet accompaniment in the cellos where in the trio the cello simply doubles the piano's bass line.
