In just the first five measures of this sonata's remarkable Moderato opening, Haydn introduces the three tiny motifs from which the entire movement grows. This is all crammed into a stern, twisting phrase and its answer of tentative repeated notes. Where a full-fledged second subject would normally appear, Haydn simply repeats the opening motif in a major key, giving it an entirely new character. The development section, which by Haydn's standards is fairly extended, pulls the three motifs through a variety of harmonic settings. Next comes a Scherzando marked Allegro con brio. It's a variation-rondo based on a chipper major-mode tune and a related, slightly convoluted minor-mode theme. The element of variation comes when this set of themes is played the second time, touched up a bit here and there but not transfigured; the third time around the themes resume their original forms. The Minuet follows the convolutions of a haunted yet florid theme in a moderate tempo. Haydn finds greater composure in the spare, dignified trio section.

© All Music Guide

Portions of Content Provided by All Music Guide.
© 2008 All Media Guide, LLC. All Music Guide is a registered trademark of All Media Guide, LLC.