Symphony No. 102 (Haydn)

Symphony No. 102 in B-flat major, Hob. I:102, is the tenth of the twelve London Symphonies composed by Joseph Haydn. Written in 1794 during Haydn's second visit to London, it premiered at the Hanover Square Rooms on March 2, 1795, and was an immediate success.

The symphony is scored for a relatively large orchestra typical of Haydn's London period, consisting of 2 flutes, 2 oboes, 2 clarinets, 2 bassoons, 2 horns, 2 trumpets, timpani, and strings. The inclusion of clarinets, while not in all of the London symphonies, adds a particular richness to the orchestral color.

The symphony is in four movements:

• I. Largo – Vivace: The first movement begins with a solemn, dramatic Largo introduction in B-flat minor, characterized by its use of string tremolos and winds. This contrasts sharply with the ensuing Vivace, a lively and energetic sonata-form movement in B-flat major. The Vivace is known for its inventive thematic development and its skillful use of contrasting dynamics.

• II. Adagio: The second movement is a serene and lyrical Adagio in F major. Its elegant melody is first presented by the strings and then elaborated upon by various solo instruments. The movement is notable for its graceful orchestration and its overall sense of tranquility.

• III. Menuet: Allegro – Trio: The third movement is a spirited Menuet and Trio. The Menuet, in B-flat major, is robust and rhythmically driven. The Trio, in E-flat major, offers a contrasting mood with its lighter texture and more lyrical melody, featuring prominent solos for the oboe and bassoon.

• IV. Finale: Presto: The finale is a boisterous and exhilarating Presto in B-flat major. This sonata-rondo form movement is characterized by its rapid tempos, driving rhythms, and memorable melodic themes. The movement is particularly noteworthy for its humorous touches and its overall sense of celebratory energy, bringing the symphony to a satisfying and triumphant conclusion.

Symphony No. 102 is considered one of Haydn's finest symphonies, noted for its melodic invention, skillful orchestration, and overall sense of dramatic power and emotional depth. Its premiere was a significant event in London's musical life, and the symphony has remained a popular and frequently performed work ever since. A notable anecdote relates that during the premiere of the symphony, a chandelier fell from the ceiling, but miraculously, no one was injured as the audience had surged forward to applaud a particularly dramatic passage. This further cemented the symphony's reputation and added to its legendary status.