CHAPTER 46

Joseph Haydn: Late Symphonies and Vocal Music

• In 1779 Haydn signed a new contract with Nikolaus Esterházy which freed the composer from his prior obligation to compose solely for the prince.

• Consequently, he began to sell his music to publishers in major European cities.

• Alongside handsome fees, his growing fame brought him remunerative commissions.

The Paris Symphonies

This set of six symphonies by Haydn (Nos. 82-87) was commissioned in 1785 by the amateur orchestra of the Loge Olympique, a Freemason society in Paris.

Perhaps because this Parisian ensemble was three times the size that of the Esterházy's orchestra, the Paris Symphonies are characterized by dramatic orchestral effects, such as stark contrasts in dynamics and textures.

The Paris Symphonies were to be performed in a large public concert hall rather than a private salon. This may account for the folksy, uncomplicated nature of many of the themes.

The 12 London Symphonies (Nos. 93-104)

• In 1791, the year following the death of his long-time patron Nikolaus Esterházy, Haydn was engaged to compose a set of 12 symphonies, now called the London Symphonies, to be performed in London. He did so between the years 1791 and 1795. Thanks to his activities in London, Haydn achieved financial security for life.

• "Surprise" Symphony (No. 94): one of Haydn's most popular London Symphonies, it was premiered in 1792. Both the name and fame of the symphony come from its second movement, designed—according to Haydn himself—"to surprise the public" or even “shock the sleepers.”

Vocal Music

• Haydn had first studied the music and liturgy of the Catholic Church as a choirboy at the Cathedral of St. Stephen during the 1740s.

• Like Mozart and Beethoven, he turned to sacred music late in his life.

• Masses: In 1795, Haydn was commissioned to compose a new polyphonic Mass every year for Maria Esterházy, wife of the prince. – the six Masses that resulted are large-scale works

requiring full orchestra and chorus with soloists.

• Oratorios: inspired by the performances of Handel's oratorios in London, Haydn wrote two oratorios, The Creation and The Seasons.

The Creation

Composed between 1796 and 1798, this oratorio recounts the story of the creation of the world as told in the Book of Genesis. Each of the three parts of The Creation ends with a rousing chorus, in which the multitudes proclaim the glory of God.

Because of his declining health, Haydn's productivity diminished and finally ended in 1803. Haydn died in 1809, little over a year after his farewell concert in which Antonio Salieri conducted The Creation.