Franz Joseph Haydn

Franz Joseph Haydn (1732–1809), born in Austria, was a leading composer of the Viennese Classical period. While serving the Esterházy family for many years, he helped develop the forms and expressive language of the symphony and string quartet, earning the traditional titles “Father of the Symphony” and “Father of the String Quartet.” His music is characterized by clear structure, balanced writing, witty rhythms, and memorable melodies. He profoundly influenced Mozart, Beethoven, and later generations of composers. Among his best-known works are Symphony No. 94, “Surprise,” Symphony No. 104, “London,” the “Emperor” String Quartet, and the oratorio The Creation. Haydn also wrote numerous piano sonatas and shorter keyboard pieces, in which concise themes and conversational development are central. Piabase includes individual pieces from his Ten Minuets, Hob. IX:22, including the German dances arranged for keyboard.