Haydn

A detailed life chronicle follows the composer's progression from humble origins and choir-school training to long-term service with a powerful patronage household, later international recognition during two visits to England, and culminating in major oratorios and final decline. It surveys personal character and working methods, the responsibilities and constraints of court employment, and the development of symphonies, string quartets, and vocal works. The volume includes discussion of final years, selections of correspondence, a last will, a catalogue of compositions, a bibliography, and appendices that illuminate family background and primary documents.