CONTENTS.
CHAPTER I.HIS YOUTH AND EARLY STUDIES.Haydn’s Birth and Family—His Early Talent—First Studies with Frankh—Chapel-boy at St. Stephens’—Ruetter’s Instructions—Early Compositions—His Mischievous Tricks and Dismissal—Anecdote of Maria Theresa—Acquaintance with Metastasio—Influence of Philip Emanuel Bach—The Origin of his First Opera, “The Devil on Two Sticks.”7-39CHAPTER II.AT PRINCE ESTERHAZY’S.Haydn’s Studies with Porpora—His Italian Operas—Engagement with Count Von Morzin—His First String Quartet—An Unfortunate Marriage—Domestic Troubles without End—Appointment as Capellmeister at Esterhaz—His Orchestra and Chorus—Rapid Musical Progress—His Most Important Earlier Compositions—Development of the Quartet—Personal Characteristics and Anecdotes—The Surprise Symphony—Influence of his Life at Esterhaz upon his Music.40-89CHAPTER III.THE FIRST LONDON JOURNEY.A Winter Adventure—The Relations of Mozart and Haydn—Mozart’s Dedication—The Emperor Joseph’s Opinions—Letters to Frau Von Genzinger—A Catalogue of Complaints—His Engagement with Salomon—The London Journey—Scenes on the Way—A Brilliant Reception—Rivalry of the Professional Concerts—The Händel Festival—Honors at Oxford—Pleyel’s Arrival—Royal Honors—His Benefit Concert—Return to Vienna.90-135CHAPTER IV.THE EMPEROR’S HYMN—THE CREATION AND THE SEASONS.Criticisms at Home—His Relations to Beethoven—Jealousy of the Great Mogul—His Second London Journey—The Military Symphony—His Longings for Home—Great Popularity In England—Reception by the Royal Family—His Gifts—Return to Vienna—Origin of the Emperor’s Hymn—The Creation and the Seasons—Personal Characteristic—His Death—Haydn’s Place in Music.136-195