Symphony No. 45 in F-sharp minor, known as the “Farewell Symphony,” is one of Joseph Haydn’s most remarkable works. Composed in 1772, it reflects Haydn’s subtle yet expressive ability to convey emotions and stories through music. The symphony is often associated with a wink, as Haydn incorporated an unusual musical message to his patron, Prince Nikolaus Esterházy. The Prince often kept his musicians longer than usual at his remote castle, prompting Haydn to suggest through the gradual diminuendo and the musicians leaving the podium one by one in the final movement, a hint that it was time to go home.