Final answer:
The name “Emperor” Quartet derives from Haydn's second movement, which is based on the anthem he composed for Emperor Francis II. This anthem became the melody for the German national anthem, reinforcing the quartet's regal connotations and earning it the nickname “Emperor” Quartet.
Step-by-step explanation:
The name “Emperor” Quartet, also known as String Quartet in C major, Op. 76, No. 3, Hob. III:77, derives from the second movement of the work by Joseph Haydn, which is a set of variations on “Gott erhalte Franz den Kaiser” (God Save Emperor Francis), an anthem Haydn composed for Emperor Francis II. The melody of this anthem was later adopted for the German national anthem. The second movement is connected to the name because it prominently features this melody, giving the quartet its unofficial but commonly used nickname, the “Emperor” Quartet.
Haydn's use of the anthem in the second movement of this string quartet creates a regal and stately effect, contributing to the overarching theme and infusing the work with a sense of patriotism and ceremony. The renowned composer was also known for his contributions to the development of the classical style, and this quartet is a fine example of his musical mastery.