Symphony No. 8 (Michael Haydn) Explained

Michael Haydn's Symphony No. 8 in D major, Perger 38, Sherman 8, Sherman-adjusted 10, MH 69, is believed to have been written in Salzburg, some time after 1764.

Scored for flute, 2 oboes, 2 bassoons, 2 horns, 2 trumpets, timpani and strings, in four movements:

1. Allegro molto
2. Andante in G major
3. Menuetto with Trio in D minor
4. Presto

The Andante and Menuetto feature significant parts for solo bassoon. The Presto finale calls for solo roles for clarinet, bassoon and horn.

References

• A. Delarte, "A Quick Overview Of The Instrumental Music Of Michael Haydn" Bob's Poetry Magazine November 2006: 34 (PDF)
• Charles H. Sherman and T. Donley Thomas, Johann Michael Haydn (1737 - 1806), a chronological thematic catalogue of his works. Stuyvesant, New York: Pendragon Press (1993)
• C. Sherman, "Johann Michael Haydn" in The Symphony: Salzburg, Part 2 London: Garland Publishing (1982): lxiv