Symphony No. 98 in B-flat major
Joseph Haydn
Work background
Researched classical background
Haydn's 98th Symphony begins in B-flat minor before establishing the major-key movement that follows. Its finale contains an unusual keyboard solo, recalling Haydn's own role directing London performances from the keyboard. The four-movement work combines public orchestral gestures with moments that spotlight individual players, making its performance circumstances audible within the score itself.
A listening guide
Listen for the brief keyboard solo near the end of the finale.
Listening suggestions are editorial guides to the music.
Forces: Orchestra with a brief keyboard solo in the finale
Composition: 1791-1792
Composed 1791-92 for the London concerts.
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.
Date, title and version notes
A proposed memorial interpretation of the slow movement is not treated as documented composer intent.
Haydn Archive: Symphony No.98
1791-92 composition, thematic connections and keyboard solo in finale | Reviewed 2026-10-19
Sources for this work
Haydn Archive: Symphony No.98
1791-92 composition, thematic connections and keyboard solo in finale | Reviewed 2026-10-19
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