Franz Joseph Haydn

Haydn was one of the most prolific and famous composers of his day. Of humble origins in eastern Austria, he rose to prominence as court musician for the wealthy Hungarian Esterházy court, later enjoying a celebrated career in London and Vienna. He was close friends with Mozart and a teacher of Beethoven. He wrote symphonies, string quartets, masses, and oratorios, all of which are celebrated today as masterpieces.