CX. HAYDN, Franz Joseph: Symphony #101 in D Major

CX. HAYDN, Franz Joseph (1732-1809)

Symphony #101 in D Major ("The Clock") (1793-94)
1. Adagio
2. Andante
3. Menuetto. Allegretto
4. Finale. Vivace
The New Dutch Academy Orchestra
Simon Murphy, cond.
(28:08)

Ah, late Haydn ...

This is the ninth in the of the 12 so-called "London Symphonies," composed during two separate visits to England.

It was during this time that Beethoven studied with Haydn (in Vienna); one can hear the influence. By this point, Haydn -- the assured master of the symphonic form -- is using the winds in a more prominent role; is cascading through modulations, not too far afield -- and writing unforgettable melodic music.

First Movement

The opening Adagio (in D Minor) had to have caught Beethoven's ear. It is exquisite, landing on F Major, before finally stopping on the Dominant A Major. The imaginative Presto follows:

Second Movement

From whence the nickname derives! Tick-tock goes the accompaniment to an elegant melody in the First Violins:

Third Movement

Standard Minuet and Trio. Nice flute solo in the Trio.

Fourth Movement

A tuneful finale, with Haydn moving chromatically in the harmony much more than he did in his earlier works.