Symphony No. 26 in D minor 'Lamentatione' ('Christmas Symphony') [Hob. I:26]

Description

Symphony No. 26 in D minor, Hob. I:26 ("Lamentatione" / "Christmas Symphony") was composed in 1768 by Franz Joseph Haydn (1732-1809) during his early tenure at the Esterh�zy court, a period marked by experimentation with his Sturm und Drang style. The symphony's nickname "Lamentatione" derives from its incorporation of Gregorian chant melodies connected with the Lamentations of Jeremiah, traditionally sung during Holy Week, while the alternative title "Christmas Symphony" reflects its likely use of plainchant material familiar from liturgical practice more broadly. Distinctive for its somber D minor tonality and use of chant-based thematic material, the symphony stands apart from Haydn's more typical early symphonies in both mood and construction. Symphony No. 26 is performed occasionally, particularly by period-instrument ensembles. Instrumentation: 0.2.0.0: 2.0.0.0: Str (4.4.3.3.3 in set). Reprint of the Eusebius Mandyczewski edition, which is part of the Joseph Haydns Werke series.