Whose Symphony No. 94 is called the Surprise Symphony?

Whose Symphony No. 94 is called the Surprise Symphony?

• A. Mozart
• B. Haydn
• C. Beethoven
• D. Tchaikovsky

Answer: (B)

This question tests recognition of a famous nickname attached to a symphony and who earned it. The nickname “Surprise” goes with Symphony No. 94 in G major, a work by Joseph Haydn from his set of London symphonies. The effect comes from a gentle, quiet second movement that is interrupted by a sudden loud chord, designed to startle the audience and create a memorable moment. That distinctive feature is what gave the piece its famous nickname. The other composers listed did not write a symphony known by that name, so Haydn is the correct choice.

This question tests recognition of a famous nickname attached to a symphony and who earned it. The nickname “Surprise” goes with Symphony No. 94 in G major, a work by Joseph Haydn from his set of London symphonies. The effect comes from a gentle, quiet second movement that is interrupted by a sudden loud chord, designed to startle the audience and create a memorable moment. That distinctive feature is what gave the piece its famous nickname. The other composers listed did not write a symphony known by that name, so Haydn is the correct choice.