Franz Joseph Haydn Popular Song Rankings [2026]

Piano Concerto in D major, Hob. XVIII:11Franz Joseph Haydn31rank/position

Joseph Haydn – Piano Concerto No. 11 in D major, Hob. XVIII/11 – Mikhail Pletnev

Haydn, who left a brilliant legacy in the history of classical music as the father of the symphony.

His concertos for piano overflow with refined beauty and masterful structure.

Published late in his life in 1784, the Piano Concerto in D major, Hob.

XVIII:11, is an outstanding work notable for its graceful, singing melodies.

From the middle movement, which hints at the influence of his exchanges with Mozart, to the vivacious, Hungarian-flavored finale, the breadth of Haydn’s musical world is distilled into this piece.

Relish the exquisite balance between soloist and orchestra in this masterpiece and savor it to the fullest.

Little SerenadeFranz Joseph Haydn32rank/position

Little Serenade (Piano score, with chords)

Long cherished as a work by the great master of classical music, Franz Joseph Haydn, this piece is in fact thought by some to have been composed by Roman Hofstetter, an Austrian monk and devotee of Haydn.

It is a very simple, easy-to-play piece that lets you savor a Baroque atmosphere while also carrying a sensibility that resonates today.

The left hand’s accompaniment in broken chords is straightforward, and once you learn the keyboard positions, it’s relatively easy to capture the mood.

Recommended for beginners in classical music.

Wrapped in gentle tones, you’ll find it a pleasant piece to practice.

Theme and Six Variations ‘Easy and Pleasant’ in C major, Hob. XVII:5Franz Joseph Haydn33rank/position

Haydn — Theme and Six Variations “Gentle and Pleasant” in C major, Hob. XVII:5

Franz Joseph Haydn, known as the “Father of the Symphony,” also left behind captivating masterpieces for the piano.

Among them, the Theme and Six Variations is a gem in which witty playfulness shines through its refined and gentle sonority.

It begins with a bright, pastoral theme and builds gradually through six variations.

In the fifth variation, in particular, the music modulates to the minor, suffusing its elegance with a certain poignant emotion.

Finally, the theme returns, leading to a climax that leaves a refreshing afterglow.

This beautiful sound world, woven from graceful melodies and exquisite harmonies, is cherished not only by classical music aficionados but by a wide audience as well.

Symphony No. 104 “London”Franz Joseph Haydn34rank/position

F. J. Haydn / Symphony No. 104 “London”

Symphony No.

104 “London” is the final symphony by Haydn, known as the father of the symphony.

The title “London” doesn’t carry any deep meaning; it is so called because the work was composed in London.

From the very beginning, the heavy, solemn atmosphere creates tension and powerfully draws in the listener.

Comprising four movements, the piece offers moments of majesty, refined and gentle melodies, and a brisk, lively minuet, ensuring it never grows tiresome to hear.

Symphony No. 53 in D major “Imperial”Franz Joseph Haydn35rank/position

Joseph Haydn / Symphony No. 53 in D major “L’Impériale” (Kuijken)

There are at least three different scores for the final movement, and the original score of this piece has been lost.

It is unclear which version was originally intended, and opinions are divided.

It is thought that Haydn prepared multiple versions of the final movement, likely because the piece became popular among audiences.

Although the subtitle “Emperor” has been attached, it is not clear how it came to be used.

Symphony No. 100 “Military”Franz Joseph Haydn36rank/position

J. Haydn – Hob I:100 – Symphony No. 100 in G major “Military” (Brüggen)

The second movement is largely a direct reuse of the Concerto in G major for Two Lyres, Hob.

VIIh:3, but with the addition at the end of a military bugle imitation and a striking timpani solo.

A timpani solo was extraordinarily rare in music of that period.

Symphony No. 100 in G major “Military”Franz Joseph Haydn37rank/position

Haydn Symphony Nº 103 H. I:100 G major “Military” “Militär”

Symphony No.

100 in G major “Military”: I.

Adagio – Allegro, II.

Allegretto, III.

Minuet, Moderato, IV.

Finale, Presto.

Performed by the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, conducted by Mariss Jansons.

Symphony No. 101 “The Clock”Franz Joseph Haydn38rank/position

Joseph Haydn: Symphony No. 101 “The Clock”

An elegant world woven by the majestic resonance of a full orchestra—this is a masterpiece by Haydn.

Composed during his stay in London, the work is especially memorable for the clocklike, regular rhythm of its second movement.

It shines with Haydn’s characteristic wit and creativity.

At its premiere in London in March 1794, it was met with great acclaim, and the second movement was reportedly encored.

Beneath its elegance, a playful spirit can be felt.

It’s a piece that lets you fully savor the charm of classical music.

Symphony No. 102 in B-flat majorFranz Joseph Haydn39rank/position

Haydn: Symphony No. 102 in B-Flat Major, Hob. I:102: IV. Finale. Presto

Composed by Haydn in 1794, this symphony is one of the masterpieces that epitomize his London period.

Consisting of four movements, it fully showcases the mature craftsmanship of Haydn.

At its premiere, there was an incident in which a chandelier fell, but the audience reportedly remained unharmed.

The work’s appeal lies in its variety: it begins with the otherworldly sonorities of the first movement, moves to the serene melody of the second, then to the cheerful peasant dance of the third, and concludes with a bright theme in the fourth that quotes a Croatian folk song.

It’s a highly recommended piece for those who wish to savor Haydn’s music in depth.

Symphony No. 103 in E-flat major “Drumroll”Franz Joseph Haydn40rank/position

J. Haydn – Hob I:103 – Symphony No. 103 in E flat major (Brüggen)

During his stay in Britain, Haydn experienced one of the most fruitful periods of his life and composed the ‘Drumroll’ Symphony in London.

Its premiere was a great success.

It is one of Haydn’s most popular symphonies and is still frequently performed and recorded today.