CHIGACO CHAMBER ORCHESTRA

	MUSIC OF THE MERRY MONTH OF MAY

	When Haydn completed his 48th symphony, it reprented only 44% of what would be his lifetime symphonic output. There were 56 more symphonies to follow. His historical significance as„Father of the Symphony“ is not only based on quantity, but on quality of content and genius of innovation. The traditional four-movement (Allegro - Andante - Minuet or Scherzo - Vivace Finale) is the result of his experimentation and refinement starting with the symphonies of his„middle period“ of which Symphony No.48 of 1773 is a highlight. At this time Austrian Empress Maria Theresia visited Esterhaza, residence of Haydn’s employer, Prince Nikolaus Esterhazy. Entertaining events in her honor were provided by Haydn’s orchestra. They included a puppet show, an opera and Symphony No.48, which later became known by the subtitle „Maria Theresia“.		Franz Joseph Haydn (1732-1809) Silhouette from a 1786 Calendar

	Eighteen years later in 1791 British impressario and violin virtuoso John Peter Solomon arranged for two Haydn visits to London, resulting in great public successes and the creation of the master’s finest compositions: the sets of „Solomon symphonies“ and the Sinfonia concertante for solo violin, cello, oboe and bassoon. Haydn’s score is a development from the baroque concerto grosso of Vivaldi and Handel in which several solo instruments alternate with a string orchestra. Haydn used it as a base for the three-movement structure of the classic concerto (fast-slow-fast) with the full orchestra as an equal partner. Its composition was most likely inspired by the presence of outstanding London virtuoso musicians that included Solomon as violinist. Haydn himself conducted the first performance in 1792, It was enthusiastically received and later repeated in subscription and benefit concerts.

Admission free

Dieter Kober