Surprise Symphony, by Franz Joseph Haydn, I feel, is a great representation of the classical composers move from the aristocratic to a more public, middle class demographic. Its simple melodic tones, and predictable direction makes it a simple, easy listen.
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October 17, 2009 at 12:43 am
A simple analysis to a simple peice of music. I’ve still found myself questioning what makes any music simple. I suppose it’s all depends on what makes anything simple. Listening to this piece, I understand how simple it appears. There is a basic rising melody that reapeats. The surprise title certainly fits with the early and sudden isolated rise in volume. I would only mention that simple must have been what appealed to the people. It certainly does today. I am inclined to think that people like what they are comfortable with rather than what is difficult to understand no amtter how interesting. This piece is simple enough to get a hold of early on and doesn’t change course to often. The notion that it is “simple” and has a “predictable direction” is correct. The only bit I would add is when it was created. Other than that, the analysis is reasonable – even if brief.
April 13, 2010 at 10:10 am
It’s been year since I’ve heard a rendition of this piece and now it’s all come together.
Papa Haydn’s dead and gone
But his memory lingers on
When his heart was filled with bliss
He wrote merry tunes like this
When I was child I had no idea he was a composer.
Love the picture. Reminds me of a view of the Chugach Range from a beautiful spot on Lake Louise Road off the Glenn Highway.