Composer

:

Franz Joseph Haydn

Genre

:

Orchestral

Style

:

Divertimento

Compose Date

:

before 1763

Average_duration

:

16:31

Movement_count

:

5

Movement ....

Franz Joseph Haydn's 'Divertimento for 2 horns, 2 violins, viola & bass in E flat major, H. 2/21' was composed in 1763. It premiered in the same year in the court of Prince Nikolaus Esterházy, where Haydn was employed as the court composer. The piece consists of three movements: Allegro di molto, Minuetto, and Finale: Presto. The first movement, Allegro di molto, is in sonata form and begins with a lively and energetic theme played by the horns. The violins and viola then join in with a playful and light-hearted melody. The movement features a number of contrasting themes and a development section that explores the various motifs introduced in the exposition. The second movement, Minuetto, is a graceful and elegant dance in triple meter. The horns take a backseat in this movement, while the violins and viola take turns playing the main melody. The trio section features a more subdued and lyrical melody, which is then repeated with slight variations. The final movement, Finale: Presto, is a fast and lively romp that showcases Haydn's skill at writing for multiple instruments. The horns once again take center stage with a fanfare-like theme, which is then passed around to the other instruments. The movement features a number of sudden shifts in dynamics and tempo, as well as a playful and humorous ending. Overall, Haydn's 'Divertimento for 2 horns, 2 violins, viola & bass in E flat major, H. 2/21' is a charming and delightful work that exemplifies the composer's mastery of the divertimento genre. The piece is characterized by its lively and playful melodies, skillful use of multiple instruments, and Haydn's trademark wit and humor.

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