Symphony No. 85 in B-flat major, La Reine
Joseph Haydn
Work background
Researched classical background
One of Haydn's six Paris symphonies, La Reine takes its familiar name from an association with Marie Antoinette. Its slow movement varies the French song La gentille et jeune Lisette, placing a recognizable melody inside changing orchestral textures. The work was part of the Paris commission rather than an individually commissioned portrait of the queen.
A listening guide
Follow the French melody through the slow movement's variations.
Listening suggestions are editorial guides to the music.
Forces: Orchestra
Composition: 1785
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: La Reine; The Queen
Date, title and version notes
The nickname records a reception history; it is not evidence of a royal portrait programme.
Haydn2032: La Reine project
1785 date, Paris commission, French melody and Marie Antoinette association | Reviewed 2026-10-19
Sources for this work
Haydn2032: La Reine project
1785 date, Paris commission, French melody and Marie Antoinette association | Reviewed 2026-10-19
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