Joseph Haydn’s so-called Paris Symphonies were composed in 1785 and 1786 for the masonic lodge “Société Olympique” in Paris, which ran a large orchestra and organised regular concerts. These six works are notable for their artful motivic work and playful wit. Haydn here pays tribute both to the discerning taste of the Paris audience and to the excellent abilities of the musicians in the orchestra. These symphonies rapidly became famous and popular throughout Europe, thanks to editions published variously in Paris, Vienna and London. The C-major symphony was composed in 1786. Its nickname “L’Ours” (“The bear”) derives from the bagpipe-like “drone” accompaniment in the final movement, which presumably made Haydn’s contemporaries think of a dancing bear.

This study edition reproduces the musical text of the Haydn Complete Edition, which is a guarantor of the finest scholarship. An informative preface and a brief critical report make this handy score an ideal companion for all Haydn fans, both present and future.