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'''(Franz) Joseph Haydn''' (1732-1809) was an [[Austria]]n composer of the [[classical period (music)|classical]] era, and along with W.A. [[Mozart]], and [[Beethoven]], one of the “big three” of that era. He was teacher to them both and affectionately known as “Papa”.

'''(Franz) Joseph Haydn''' (1732-1809) was an [[Austria]]n composer of the [[classical period (music)|classical]] era, and along with W.A. [[Mozart]], and [[Beethoven]], one of the “big three” of that era. He was teacher to them both and affectionately known as “Papa.”

He was adept at all genres from song, opera and large sacred works, to all forms of chamber music and orchestral pieces. It is largely due to Haydn that the symphony found its classical form that has largely continued to the present day. He wrote 104 of them. He is also known as the father of the string quartet (two violins, viola, and ’cello), of which he wrote about 70.

He was adept at all genres from song, opera and large sacred works, to all forms of chamber music and orchestral pieces. It is largely due to Haydn that the symphony found its classical form that has largely continued to the present day. He wrote 104 of them. He is also known as the father of the string quartet (two violins, viola, and ’cello), of which he wrote about 70.

He also wrote over a dozen masses, 6 oratorios, 13 operas, and many works for solo piano and small chamber ensembles. His ‘cello concertos are still concert favorites, as is his trumpet concerto..

He also wrote over a dozen masses, 6 oratorios, 13 operas, 52 piano sonatas, more than a dozen piano concertos, and many works for small chamber ensembles. His ‘cello concertos are still concert favorites, as is his trumpet concerto.

His music is tuneful, beautifully crafted and often cheerful. Whilst not having quite the genius of his famous pupils, he nevertheless holds an exalted place in the  pantheon of Western music.

His music is tuneful, beautifully crafted and often cheerful. Whilst not having quite the genius of his famous pupils, he nevertheless holds an exalted place in the  pantheon of Western music.