Franz Joseph Haydn

The first in the triumvirate of the great Classical period composers, Joseph Haydn (1732 - 1809) was responsible for establishing the Symphony and the String Quartet as the pre-eminent instrumental genres for the next 300 years. Born into a modest background, Haydn became Kapellmeister at the Esterhazy court in Hungary where he remained for much of his compositional life, composing symphonies, chamber music, choral works and operas as well as directing the court orchestra. He became close friends with Mozart and later tutored Beethoven.

On the dissolution of the Esterhazy music establishment in 1790 Haydn, now the most feted composer in Europe, turned freelance. His work from this period, when he travelled widely, includes the London Symphonies and the oratorios The Creation (arguably his masterpiece) and The Seasons. At his death in 1809 Haydn was the most successful composer who had ever lived.

Key Works: Paris Symphonies, London Symphonies, String Quartets, Piano Trio, Paukenmesse (Missa in Tempora Bell), Nelson Mass, Die Schöpfung (The Creation); Die Jahreszeiten (The Seasons)

Key Artists: Aeolian Quartet, Beaux Arts Trio, Alred Brendel, Antal Dorati, Christopher Hogwood, Kodaly Quartet

Influenced by: J.S. Bach, C.P.E. Bach, Handel
Influenced: Mozart; Beethoven; Schubert; Brahms etc.