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National Orchestra of Wales

We call this the 'Drum-Roll' Symphony because it opens with a kettledrum rumble-a sort of call to attention.
The work is planned in the usual four Movements, and the chief point of distinction in it is that in every Movement at least one of the main Tunes is a folk-song of Haydn's native Croatia; and very jolly tunes most of them are. Listen, for instance, to that dainty pair that dance into the First Movement one after another and substitute themselves leaders in its game-a game that sounds so simple that you would think anyone could keep it going, but that is really so finely and scientifically put together.
A serious Second Movement, consisting of a short series of Variations on a theme, follows; then there is a dainty, prim little Minuet (with a middle part that seems to have escaped from the governess's eye and sought a quiet corner, for a flirtation, perhaps?); and a lively Last Movement, splendidly engineered, and sounding perfectly spontaneous and immensely contented.

Contributors

Musicians:
National Orchestra of Wales

5WA Cardiff

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About this data

This data is drawn from the Radio Times magazine between 1923 and 2009. It shows what was scheduled to be broadcast, meaning it was subject to change and may not be accurate. More