This paper continues the publication of the first Russian translation of Joseph Haydn’s London Notebooks. In short paragraphs, not connected to each other and sometimes rather scrappy — the great composer appears versatile and interested not only in music but also in science, literature, social life and entertainments, amusing incidents. It is clear that Haydn did not intend his notes to be published; they were just to remind him and only of what he had experienced, of people he had met and, generally, of all he had considered significant or uncommon. Some notes are rather detailed and contain curious observations, but it is very often that Haydn confined himself to the hints which were clear for him only — such vague allusions cannot always be deciphered in exact way. This publication presents the translation of the Second notebook with commentary.
Abstract