Short description
Two of the most well-known composers of the Classical Period are featured by Maestro Olivier Ochanine and the Sun Symphony Orchestra. Joseph Haydn’s Symphony No. 100 “Military” and Beethoven’s Symphony No. 2 will have listeners at the edge of their seat.
Haydn – Symphony No. 100 “Military”
Beethoven – Symphony No. 2
When one thinks of the great Beethoven it is easy to forget that his genius was inspired by another prominent composer of the time, Joseph Haydn. In November 1792 the young Beethoven began his studies with “Papa” Haydn in Vienna but quickly became dissatisfied. His great teacher was already in his 60’s and often tired due to his grueling schedule. He simply did not have enough time for his gifted prodigy. Because of this, Beethoven would take lessons with other teachers – often in secret as not to offend his great Master. Beethoven once said, “I never learned anything from Haydn”. Despite this, the relationship was never strained and Beethoven always kept great respect for his teacher. He would do anything for him though there would be one request that Beethoven would deny him. On this occasion Haydn asked his student to write on top of one of his compositions, “by Ludwig Beethoven, pupil of Haydn”… his student respectfully refused.
Tonight’s program begins with the eighth of 12 “London” Symphonies. Haydn’s Symphony No. 100 “Military” is described as a “hellish roar of war”. The evening concludes with Beethoven’s Symphony No. 2, a work that was written during a major crisis in the composer’s life; his despairing acceptance that his deafness would be incurable.