the viennese three and classical politics a changing world reflected in the lives of three great...
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The Viennese Three and
Classical Politics
A changing world reflected in the lives of three great composers.
Franz Josef HaydnMarch 31, 1732 - May 31, 1809
• Considered one of the greatest composers in Europe in the Classical Period.
• In demand for public performances as far away as London.
• Lived as a SERVANT in the employment of Prince Paul Anton Esterhazy of Austria.
Prince Paul Anton Esterhazy IIApril 22, 1711 - March 18, 1762
• Hired Haydn in 1761
• Succeeded in 1762 by his brother, Nikolaus Josef Esterhazy
Nikolaus Josef EsterhazyDecember 18, 1714 - September 28, 1790
• Succeeded his brother, Prince Paul Anton Esterhazy in 1762.
• Reprimanded Haydn in 1765 for not writing enough music for his favorite instrument, the “baryton.”
• Otherwise kind and generous to Haydn, rebuilding his house when it burned and keeping mediocre singers on payroll because of their relationships with Haydn.
Prince Anton Esterhazy IApril 11, 1738 – January 22, 1794
• Succeeded his father, Nikolaus Josef Esterhazy, on his death in 1790.
• Reduced Esterhazy spending on music, reducing Haydn’s responsibilities.
• Allowed Haydn to travel to London for performances, even loaning money for travel.
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart27 January 1756 - 5 December 1791
• Aspiring independent entrepreneurial composer/musician.
• Considered one of the greatest composers of all time.
• Struggled financially
Count Hieronymus von ColloredoArchbishop of Salzburg
May 31, 1732 - May 20, 1812
• Employed Mozart from 1773 to 1777.
• Mozart became especially dissatisfied when the Salzburg opera house closed in 1775.
• After a number of arguments, dismissed Mozart with the words: “Soll er doch gehen, ich brache ihn nicht,” meaning “May he go. I don’t need him.”
Ludwig van BeethovenDecember 16, 1770 – March 26, 1827
• Independent entrepreneurial composer musician.
• Financially and artistically successful, a “rock star” in his day and afterward.
• Led artistic transition from Classicism to Romanticism.
The Viennese Three and
Classical Politics