Franz Joseph Haydn ： 12 New German Dance No.4 in C-Dur Hob.IX:12

The fourth piece of Haydn’s 12 New German Dances is a concise and approachable dance that highlights the brightness of C major and a refined sense of rhythm. Built on short phrases, the music moves lightly, while melody and harmony unfold naturally within a well-balanced structure. Its appeal lies in the steady flow of the beat and the elegant character created by restrained harmonic changes. In performance, aim for a touch that preserves the meter without becoming heavy, and allow a slight breath at the ends of phrases. By balancing the hands and bringing out the small movements of the notes clearly, the dance’s lively and graceful lightness comes to the fore.