London Symphonies

works by Haydn

Written by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

June 30, 2026

Quick Summary

The "London Symphonies" refer to a set of 12 symphonies composed by Joseph Haydn during his two visits to London in the 1790s. These works represent the pinnacle of his symphonic output and were highly influential in the development of the Classical style.12

One of the most famous among them is Symphony No. 94 in G Major, nicknamed the "Surprise Symphony". It earned its name from a sudden, loud chord in the second movement, which Haydn added for the London premiere. This addition was a characteristic touch of Haydn's wit and his ability to engage audiences. These symphonies are known for their formal perfection, melodic inventiveness, and masterful orchestration.3412

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

4 Britannica Sources

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.

harmony
Modulation
104 in D Major, the London Symphony).
Read More
104 in D Major, the London Symphony).
Read More

instrumentation
The Classical period
…of his career, in the London Symphonies, Haydn introduced clarinets as part of the woodwind section, a change that was to be permanent. Haydn also introduced the following innovations: trumpets were used independently instead of always doubling the horns, cellos became separated from the double basses, and woodwind instruments were…
Read More
…of his career, in the London Symphonies, Haydn introduced clarinets as part of the woodwind section, a change that was to be permanent. Haydn also introduced the following innovations: trumpets were used independently instead of always doubling the horns, cellos became separated from the double basses, and woodwind instruments were…
Read More

symphony
Haydn
…late Paris Symphonies (1785–86) and London Symphonies (1791–95) reflect the influence of Mozart and show Haydn at the height of his power. No two movements are alike; the “mosaic” of theme elements pervades even transition sections and codas; each instrument shares in the melodic development; minuets grow in fire or…
Read More
…late Paris Symphonies (1785–86) and London Symphonies (1791–95) reflect the influence of Mozart and show Haydn at the height of his power. No two movements are alike; the “mosaic” of theme elements pervades even transition sections and codas; each instrument shares in the melodic development; minuets grow in fire or…
Read More