Prokofiev's Symphony N° 1 from 1917 can be considered as one of the first neo-classical compositions. Prokofiev set about composing the piece with the thought, If "Papa" Haydn were alive to day, how might he write a symphony?" The idea was partly inspired by his conducting studies at the Conservatory, in which the instructor, Teneev, prepared his students to conduct Haydn. Prokofiev wrote the symphony on holiday in the country, and he used this piece as an exercise in composing away from the piano (an accomplished pianist, it was understandable that he had developed a habit of composing at the keyboard); so this was another reason why he took Haydn as a model. Prokofiev gave the symphony the nickname "The Classical" partly in the hope that his piece might indeed become a classic.

In this, he has met ample success; for the symphony is one of Prokofiev's most popular and accessible works. It has several themes that have been used as television background music.