Symphony No. 53 in D major, L'Imperiale
Joseph Haydn
Work background
Researched classical background
Haydn's Fifty-third circulated widely and survives with alternative finales. Its tuneful Andante also traveled beyond the symphony in arrangements for other performing forces, showing how individual movements could acquire independent lives. The work's transmission history makes the finale especially important when comparing performances: differences may reflect historical versions rather than cuts made by a modern conductor.
A listening guide
Compare the chosen finale and hear how its character balances the preceding Andante and minuet.
Listening suggestions are editorial guides to the music.
Forces: Orchestra
Composition: Circa 1777-1778
Approximate chronology 1777-78; the specialist catalogue distinguishes earlier and final forms.
This entry describes the musical work or cycle. Composition, premiere and publication dates describe different events. Performers and recordings can be explored through the external listening search.
Also known as: L'Imperiale; Imperial Symphony
Date, title and version notes
Alternative finales survive; a linked performance should state its chosen version.
Haydn2032: L'Imperiale
Symphony No.53 circulation, movement design and alternate finales | Reviewed 2026-10-19
Haydn2032: Symphony Index
Catalogue identifiers, date estimates, movement headings and scoring; dates treated as estimates when marked uncertain | Reviewed 2026-10-19
Sources for this work
Haydn2032: L'Imperiale
Symphony No.53 circulation, movement design and alternate finales | Reviewed 2026-10-19
Haydn2032: Symphony Index
Catalogue identifiers, date estimates, movement headings and scoring; dates treated as estimates when marked uncertain | Reviewed 2026-10-19
Browse by year
1960-2025. Each year contains 150 selections.