Analysis of the Second Movement in Haydn's Sonata in E Minor, Hob XVI 34
Haydn's Piano Sonata in E minor, Hob. XVI:34, composed around 1777, stands out as one of the composer's most expressive and innovative keyboard works from the classical period. This sonata, penned during Haydn's mature period, marks a departure from the predominantly major-key, galant style of earlier keyboard sonatas, and instead, delves into the unexplored territory of minor keys and dramatic contrasts.
Historically, the E minor tonality itself was unusual and signalled a more intense, melancholic character uncommon in Haydn’s keyboard compositions up to that time. The work is part of the group of sonatas Haydn composed for the harpsichord or early fortepiano, reflecting the transitional keyboard instrument period in the late 18th century.
The sonata incorporates emotional depth and expressive nuance that presage the Romantic style, particularly through its use of a minor key and dramatic harmonic shifts. The structural design includes carefully articulated thematic development and contrasting moods across movements, showcasing Haydn’s mastery over sonata form. The piano writing is idiomatic and exploits the capabilities of the evolving keyboard instruments, offering both virtuosity and lyrical passages.
The second movement, notably, shifts from the sombre E minor of the first movement to a brighter, more lyrical G major. Typically marked as an Adagio or Andante, this movement showcases Haydn’s lyrical gift and elegance, with a singing melodic line that highlights clarity and expressive subtlety. The movement’s serenely flowing character creates a calm respite within the sonata’s emotional journey, balancing the drama of the surrounding movements.
The second movement, in G major, connects seamlessly with the first movement through an unconventional ending in G major, creating a feeling of suspense. Its simplicity and grace reflect Haydn’s ability to convey profound feeling with economy and refined melodic development. The movement follows a ternary form (ABA) and retains a balance of simplicity and sophistication. The melodic lines in the second movement are straightforward, characterised by elegance and grace.
The contrasting middle section of the second movement modulates to E minor, providing a poignant contrast to the opening theme. The second movement concludes with a deceptive cadence leading into the third movement, and the performance direction is "attacca subito", meaning that the performer shouldn’t make any pause from the second movement to the third.
In summary, Haydn’s Piano Sonata in E minor, Hob. XVI:34, is historically significant for its expressive minor-key exploration and formal innovation, while the second movement in G major exemplifies his lyrical and emotive style through a peaceful, melodic contrast that enhances the overall dramatic arc of the sonata.
The composer, Haydn, demonstrates his mastery over sonata form in the E minor sonata, composing a second movement in G major that connects seamlingly with the first movement, showcasing his ability to create profound emotions with economy and refined melodic development. This movement, with its elegance and grace, offers a serene respite within the sonata's dramatic journey, balancing the somber expressiveness of the first movement.
