Composer of the Month: Joseph Haydn (Classical Period)

"When I think of my God, my heart dances within me for joy, and then my music has to dance too." — Joseph Haydn

Joseph Haydn (1732 - 1809) was an Austrian composer who was one of the most important figures in the development of the Classical style of music during the 18th century.

Haydn showed a great gift for music. Before he was 6, he left his parents’ home for a nearby city to train with a cousin who was a choirmaster.

The young Haydn sang in the church choir, received musical education, and learned to play various instruments. Then, the musical director of Austria’s largest church, in Vienna, recruited 8-year-old Haydn to serve as a chorister. Haydn accepted the offer and spent the next nine years at the choir school.

Haydn’s mother had desired for him to become a Catholic priest. Though while he never did, he did compose a great deal of sacred music.

For much of his career, Haydn was an assistant music director for a noble family, and in that role, he was given ample resources to compose music and develop his style.

During his lifetime, Haydn was the most famous composer alive. He was considered a mentor to Mozart, who affectionately called him “Papa Haydn” (even though Haydn believed Mozart was a better composer). Haydn had a series of string quartets dedicated to him by Mozart. Then after Mozart passed away, Haydn briefly taught Beethoven.

Known as the “Father of Symphony”, Haydn helped establish the forms and styles for the string quartet and the symphony. During his life, he composed 106 symphonies, over 90 quartets, 620 piano sonatas, and 32 piano trios.

Haydn was a true representative of the Enlightenment. For generations, his artistry and superb craftsmanship have been appreciated.

Click here to listen to Joseph Haydn's Symphony No. 49 in F minor "La Passione".