"F.J. and the PRINCE" at 9:00 PM

 

Prince Nikolaus Esterhazy II and Haydn had

an uneasy start to their friendship in the early

years of Haydn's employment at the Esterhazy court. Nevertheless, Haydn dedicated six sonatas to the Prince: Hob XVI/20-26, published in 1776.​​

"DARKNESS VISIBLE" at 9:00 PM 

The cultural effects of the "Sturm und Drang" movement, originating in Germanic literature, were not lost on Haydn. At least four works written in the 1770's reflect the composer's awareness of this novelty, setting minor-keyed, darker essays in sonata form. In many ways, the drama in these pieces surprises the modern-day listener with their starkness and urgency.​​

"THE LONDON SONATAS I" at 9:00 PM

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Haydn’s visits to London in the 1790's offered acquaintance with modern keyboard instruments of the time: more robust in character and of more superior dynamic capability than Viennese pianos. There was an extended key range as well as a sustaining pedal, all igniting Haydn’s creative impulses. What emerged were three piano sonatas: Hob.XVI/Nos. 50, 51 and 52, truly the apex of Haydn’s solo keyboard output.

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