Franz Joseph Haydn Popular Song Rankings [2026]

Piano Sonata No. 50 in D major, Hob. XVI/37Franz Joseph Haydn29rank/position

Olga Scheps, Joseph Haydn – Joseph Haydn: Piano Sonata No. 50 in D Major, Hob. XVI:37

Composed in 1780, this piano sonata is a work that showcases Haydn’s talent to the fullest.

It is said to have been written for the Auenbrugger sisters, who were outstanding pianists.

Consisting of three movements—a bright and lively first movement, an introspective and fantastical second movement, and a vigorous, dynamic third movement—it offers a richly varied structure.

This piece, which superbly expresses Haydn’s technical mastery and musical imagination, is highly recommended for anyone wishing to enjoy classical music.

Piano Trio No. 39 in G major, Hob. XV:25Franz Joseph Haydn30rank/position

HAYDN – Piano Trio No. 39 in G major Hob. XV/25 (“Gypsy”)

Franz Joseph Haydn’s Piano Trio No.

39 in G major, Hob.

XV/25—by the Austrian composer who epitomizes the Classical era—was composed as one of a triptych dedicated to his friend in London, the widow Rebecca Schroeter.

Consisting of three movements, it vividly reflects Haydn’s creativity and innovation through features such as variation form and a cantabile style.

It is a masterpiece that captivates a wide range of listeners, from classical music beginners to advanced aficionados.

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.