The richness of Haydn’s music

Joseph Haydn is often called the ‘inventor of the symphony’. He wrote no less than 104 symphonies. The Sweelinck Baroque Orchestra of the Early Music department of the CvA presents two of his most celebrated symphonies in a concert aria. Symphony No. 49 marks an interesting turning point in his compositional development. It was likely intended for a church performance, possibly during Holy Week – hence the nickname La passione. The emotional, often somber, tone foreshadows the Romantic period.

The concert aria Scena di Berenice, one of the great concert arias of the 18th century, is filled with intense emotions. It premiered on 4 May 1795, at the King’s Theatre during Haydn’s second visit to London. Symphony No. 104 was featured on the programme as well. It would prove to be Haydn’s final symphony. Overflowing with musical surprises and a rich variety of moods, it sounds as if the composer pulled out all the stops one last time.

PLEASE NOTE: This programme has been changed with respect to the previous announcement. Ticketholders will be notified of this