London symphonies facts for kids

The London Symphonies are a famous group of twelve musical pieces called symphonies. They were written by a brilliant composer named Joseph Haydn between 1791 and 1795. People sometimes call them the Salomon Symphonies because a man named Johann Peter Salomon helped bring Haydn to London, where many of these symphonies were first heard.

Who Was Joseph Haydn?

Joseph Haydn was an important Austrian composer who lived from 1732 to 1809. He is often called the "Father of the Symphony" and the "Father of the String Quartet" because he helped shape these types of music. Haydn wrote over 100 symphonies, and the London Symphonies are considered some of his best.

Why Are They Called 'London' Symphonies?

Haydn wrote these symphonies especially for his two trips to London. He was invited by a German violinist and concert organizer named Johann Peter Salomon. Haydn's music was very popular in London, and these trips were a big success for him.

The Two Groups of Symphonies

The London Symphonies are divided into two main groups, based on when Haydn composed them:

First London Visit (1791–1792)

The first group includes Symphonies Nos. 93 to 98. Haydn wrote these during his first visit to London.

Second London Visit (1793–1795)

The second group includes Symphonies Nos. 99 to 104. Haydn composed these for his second visit, writing some in Vienna before traveling and finishing others in London.

What Makes These Symphonies Special?

Most of the London Symphonies start with a slow, quiet introduction before the main, faster music begins. Only Symphony No. 95 does not have this slow start. Many of these symphonies also have nicknames, which often come from a special moment or sound in the music.

Famous London Symphonies

Here are the twelve London Symphonies, with their numbers, keys, and famous nicknames:

• Symphony No. 93 in D major (1791)
• Symphony No. 94 in G major, The Surprise (1791)
• Symphony No. 95 in C minor (1791)
• Symphony No. 96 in D major, The Miracle (1791)
• Symphony No. 97 in C major (1792)
• Symphony No. 98 in B♭ major (1792)
• Symphony No. 99 in E♭ major (1793)
• Symphony No. 100 in G major, Military (1793–1794)
• Symphony No. 101 in D major, The Clock (1793–1794)
• Symphony No. 102 in B♭ major (1794)
• Symphony No. 103 in E♭ major, Drumroll (1795)
• Symphony No. 104 in D major, London (1795)