Symphony No. 45

Symphony No. 45, composed by Joseph Haydn in 1772, is often called the "Farewell Symphony." It is notable for its innovative structure and emotional depth. The piece features a gradual reduction of musicians, symbolizing the departure of his orchestra from the summer residence of their patron. In the final movement, players sequentially stop playing and leave the stage, leaving only two violinists. This clever and poignant conclusion reflects themes of separation and storytelling through music, showcasing Haydn's ingenuity and contributing to the development of symphonic form in Western classical music.