Character Catalog

In this symphony, Haydn devises a finale where the musicians leave the stage one by one, as a way of signaling to Prince Esterházy that his musicians wished to return home. A masterpiece of humor and musical ingenuity.

These six quartets represent a revolution in chamber writing, establishing an equal dialogue among all four instruments. Haydn develops the four-movement form that would become the standard.

These twelve symphonies, composed for London audiences, represent the pinnacle of classical symphonic art. Symphony No. 94 'Surprise' and No. 104 'London' are the most celebrated among them.

Inspired by the Book of Genesis and Milton's Paradise Lost, this oratorio for soloists, chorus, and orchestra is a monumental work depicting the creation of the world through music. It was celebrated throughout Europe.

Haydn's second great oratorio, illustrating the four seasons of the year with remarkable descriptive energy. It was the last major work the composer completed, at the age of sixty-nine.

Written for the newly invented keyed trumpet, this concerto is today one of the most frequently performed in the repertoire. It reflects Haydn's enduring curiosity about new instrumental possibilities.

Composed against the backdrop of the Napoleonic Wars, this mass weaves martial kettledrums and trumpets into the liturgical text. It captures the anguish of a Europe in the grip of political upheaval.

"Here I sit in my solitude, like a poor orphan, almost without human company, sad, full of the memory of past days of glory — yes, past, alas!"

"My music travels around the world; everywhere I go, people know me."

"The said Joseph Haydn undertakes to conduct himself as an honest, sober and frugal servant, to behave with propriety [...] and to compose according to the wishes of His Highness."

"I declare before God, as an honest man, that your son is the greatest composer I know, either personally or by reputation."

Haydn kept a catalogue of his own works from 1765 onwards, carefully noting each composition with its musical incipit — a rare testament to an 18th-century composer's concern for his legacy.

Haydn's birthplace, where he was born in 1732 into a modest family. His childhood home is now a museum commemorating the composer's humble origins.

Haydn served as a choirboy here from 1740 to 1749, receiving his foundational musical training. It was in this Gothic landmark that he developed his mastery of singing and counterpoint.

Known as the "Versailles of Hungary," this grand château was Haydn's primary workplace for nearly thirty years. It was here that he composed the majority of his symphonies and operas.

The London concert hall where Haydn conducted his triumphant performances during his two visits to England (1791–1792 and 1794–1795). His success there surpassed that of any other composer of the era.

Haydn purchased this house in the Viennese suburb of Gumpendorf in 1793 — his first personal property. He composed his final major works there and died in the house in 1809.

Haydn received an honorary doctorate from this prestigious university in 1791, during his first stay in England. In recognition of the honor, he composed Symphony No. 92, known as the "Oxford" Symphony.