This is the first symphony in the Paris cycle and it was composed in 1786. The nickname The Bear stems from the bagpipe-like theme of the final movement. The composition’s outer movements often described as examples of »brilliance« and »splendour«, surround the alternating major and minor variations of the slow movement.
The simplicity of this movement rings true to Rousseau’s characterization of »natural« music.
Continuing the cooperation between Bärenreiter and the G. Henle publisher regarding Haydn’s large-scale choral works, operas and symphonies, this edition is based on the G. Henle Complete Edition of the “Works of Joseph Haydn”.