Franz Joseph Haydn

Franz Joseph Haydn (1732–1809) was an Austrian composer, one of the most prolific and prominent composers of the Classical period. He is often called the "Father of the Symphony" and "Father of the String Quartet" because of his important contributions to these forms.

He was also instrumental in the development of the piano trio and in the evolution of sonata form.

A lifelong resident of Austria, Haydn spent much of his career as a court musician for the wealthy Esterházy family on their remote estate. Isolated from other composers and trends in music until the later part of his long life, he was, as he put it, "forced to become original". At the time of his death, he was one of the most celebrated composers in Europe.

Compositions by Franz Joseph Haydn appear on

Concert Organ Masterpieces

Composer

Masterpieces from the concert organ repertoire performed on the magnificent organ at St Johns Toorak, Melbourne.

Melbourne Windpower

Composer

Directed by Richard Runnels. Features wind octets by Haydn, C.P.E. Bach, Beethoven, Bozza and Australian Graham Powning. Recorded in the exceptionally clear and natural acoustic of the Melbourne Concert Hall.

Sydney Opera House Concert Hall Grand Organ

Composer

This CD contains historic recordings made during the inaugural recital series in 1979 when the organ was launched.

Binneas Quartet

Composer

A stunning collection of string quartets by Haydn, Bartók and Dvorák.

Pianists of Excellence

Composer

The Team of Pianists has achieved acclaim throughout Europe and Australia for their vitality and freshness in technique. Features solo, duo and two piano works Haydn, Schubert, Schumann, Chopin, Brahms and Sculthorpe.