The fortepiano used on this recording was made by Paul McNulty in Amsterdam in 1992, modeled after an instrument by Anton Gabriel Walter from around 1795.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Haydn not only perfected the string quartet form but also made similar contributions to the genres of symphony and piano sonata.
Composition History
Haydn's early piano music was influenced by the Viennese composer Georg Christoph Wagenseil, who made important contributions to the development of sonata form.
Composition History
The sonatas on this album were written in the mid-1760s when Haydn was 34-35 years old, roughly the age of Mozart at his death.
Historical Context
In 1761, Haydn signed a contract as vice-Kapellmeister for Prince Paul Anton at the court in Eisenstadt, Burgenland.
Composer Biography
Joseph Haydn, the composer, lived more than twice as long as Mozart; when Haydn was born, Bach and Handel were in the middle of their careers, and when he died, Beethoven had already produced his 'Pastoral' Symphony.
Performer Biography
Ronald Brautigam, the fortepiano performer, was awarded the Netherlands Music Prize in 1984 and is known for his interest in Mozart's music for the instrument.
