In Symphony No. 104, orchestral power shares the stage with intimate exchanges between strings and winds. An illustration inspired by London concert life in 1795. i Work Information Composer: Joseph Haydn (1732–1809) Work: Symphony No. 104 in D major, Hob. I:104, “London” Date of composition: 1795 First performance: 4 May 1795, New Room of the King’s Theatre, Haymarket, London Genre: Symphony Stylistic period: Classical Structure: Four movements Duration: Approximately 27–32 minutes, depending on tempos and repeats Instrumentation: Two flutes, two oboes, two clarinets, two bassoons, two horns, two trumpets, timpani and strings. Haydn’s Symphony No. 104 begins with an imposing orchestral statement that leaves its continuation in suspense. D and A sound with force; the resonance is sustained, giving the music the weight of a ceremonial opening. When the Allegro begins, however, the violins speak quietly, with a melody that seems to find its way forward quite naturally...