Other Music

Variations on Haydn's Surprise Theme (for concert band)

Peter Guthrie

Composed:
1999 Grouping:
Concert Band

Haydn's Surpise theme appears as the second movement of his 94th symphony. The nickname arises from the suddenly loud chord following the quiet opening, supposedly aimed at waking audiences who commonly lost interest after the first movement.

This short arrangement for concert band features the theme and two variations and aims to give each band section a chance to shine.

See also Peter's arrangement for sax octet.

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This music is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution Licence.