It is uncertain whether the chorale theme of ´Haydn Variations´ is actually by Haydn. It is certain, however, that the Variations are characteristic of Brahms´ mature orchestral style and his strict sense of form.
With ´Academic Ouverture´, the composer expressed his thanks to the University of Breslau for giving him an honorary doctorate. Although the ´brooding´ ´Tragic Ouverture´ which had originally been intended for this purpose seemed no longer appropriate to Brahms for that occasion, it has always been a resounding success since its world premiere.