[Haydn] Pick up famous and representative pieces!
One of the great composers of the Classical period, Franz Joseph Haydn.
He is known as the “Father of the Symphony” and the “Father of the String Quartet” for composing many symphonies and string quartets, but he also wrote numerous concertos and piano sonatas, exerting a tremendous influence on the world of classical music.
In this article, we’ll highlight some of Haydn’s masterpieces and signature works!
One of the pieces is used for today’s German national anthem, so be sure to check it out.
Enjoy the music of Haydn.
- [Haydn] Pick up famous and representative pieces!
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[Haydn] Pick Up His Masterpieces and Signature Works! (11–20)
Nelson Mass, Hob. XXII:11Franz Joseph Haydn
A sacred work composed by Haydn in 1798.
Born against the backdrop of the Napoleonic Wars, this piece expresses hope in a time of hardship.
Alongside grand choral and orchestral writing, it features beautiful solo singing.
In the Credo and Gloria in particular, Haydn’s craftsmanship shines in intricate polyphony that conveys praise to God with solemn grandeur.
In the Agnus Dei, the music reflects a yearning for divine grace even amid deep sorrow, leaving a profound impression on listeners.
It’s a highly recommended piece not only for those interested in sacred music but also for fans of classical music in general.
The Seven Last Words of Christ on the CrossFranz Joseph Haydn
Composed in 1786, this work is a monumental piece of sacred music that expresses the Seven Last Words of Christ on the cross through music.
Commissioned by a Spanish cathedral, it was later adapted into versions for string quartet and oratorio.
Consisting of seven slow movements, it conveys Christ’s suffering and profound spirituality.
In particular, the Largo of the Fourth Sonata—“My God! Why have You forsaken me?”—renders heartrending emotion with remarkable power.
In this video, it corresponds to 32:48.
It’s highly recommended not only for those interested in Christian music, but also for anyone seeking serene, contemplative music.
Symphony No. 31 in D major, “Horn Signal”Franz Joseph Haydn
It is a symphony composed in 1765.
It begins with a horn theme representing a post horn.
The subtitle “Horn Signal” came into use in the 19th century.
Its connection with the Symphony No.
72 in D major has been noted; in fact, the dates of composition are close, and this work was written later.
Both pieces were written to showcase the virtuosity of the Esterházy horn players.
Trumpet Concerto in E-flat major, Hob. VIIe:1Franz Joseph Haydn
It is one of Haydn’s late works from the period when he was engaged with oratorios and masses, and it is also the last concerto he composed.
Its premiere in 1800 was poorly received and it fell into obscurity, but it was finally published in 1929.
Today it has become a core piece in the trumpet repertoire.
Symphony No. 95 in C minorFranz Joseph Haydn
It is the only minor-key work among the London Symphonies, and notably the only one whose opening movement begins without a slow introduction.
Details such as a solo cello section in the trio of the minuet movement showcase Haydn’s inventiveness throughout the piece.
Symphony No. 45 in F-sharp minor, “Farewell”Franz Joseph Haydn
Composed in 1772, the Symphony No.
45 is a masterpiece that fully showcases Haydn’s genius.
It was born from an original idea: to convey through music that the musicians, whose performance season at the Esterházy family’s summer palace had dragged on, wished to see their families.
Remarkably, in the final movement the players finish one by one and leave the stage, until only a violinist and the conductor remain, an effect that vividly reflects Haydn’s witty character.
From the tense first movement to the emotionally rich second movement and the surprise-filled finale, it never lets the listener grow weary.
One cannot help but be moved by the skill with which it communicates people’s feelings through music.
[Haydn] Picking Up Masterpieces and Signature Works! (21–30)
the four seasonsFranz Joseph Haydn
This is a magnificent oratorio that crowns the later years of Franz Joseph Haydn, known as the “Father of the Symphony.” From the breath of spring to the severity of winter, it vividly depicts the cycle of the seasons and the lives of the people who dwell within them.
The way it uses music to portray natural sounds—like birdsong and the roar of storms—makes it feel as if the scenery is changing right before your eyes.
The anecdote that Haydn composed his first “chorus in praise of labor” in this work also lends it profound depth.
Since its premiere in April 1801, many outstanding performances have been preserved, so if you want to experience the beauty of the seasons through grand music, this is well worth a listen.