Joseph Haydn's Surprise Symphony (Symphony No. 94 in G Major) is famous for its unexpected loud chord in the second movement, Andante.
Haydn composed this symphony in 1791 during his first visit to London, where it premiered to great acclaim in 1792.
The movement follows a theme-and-variations structure in C major, beginning with a soft, lyrical melody. The "surprise" moment—a sudden fortissimo chord—occurs at the end of the first phrase, contrasting sharply with the delicate opening. Haydn later explained that he included this element to ensure his music stood out among other compositions of the time.
The Andante movement remains one of Haydn's most recognizable works and is frequently performed today.
