Haydn: Complete Works for Lute and Strings

Featuring

Jakob Lindberg
Nils-Erik Sparf
Lars Brolin
Olof Larsson
Joseph Haydn

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Composition History

Haydn's first quartet, which was later reworked into the Cassation in B flat for lute, violin, and violoncello, originated from a request by Baron Fürnberg for music to be played by his four friends.

Composition History

The term 'cassatio' or 'gassatio' likely comes from the German word 'Gasse' (meaning 'little street'), referring to outdoor serenades where Haydn and his musical comrades sometimes performed his compositions.

Performer Biography

Jakob Lindberg, the lutenist on this recording, was born in Danderyd, Sweden in 1952 and became professor of lute at the Royal College of Music in 1979.

Historical Context

During Haydn's early life, the lute, typically with thirteen courses (24 strings arranged in pairs), remained popular among the European aristocracy.

Cultural Impact

Haydn's early string quartet versions of these works, known for their charm and wit, became instant bestsellers and remained popular even as his compositional style evolved.

Composition History

These works were composed early in Joseph Haydn's career, after he was dismissed from the Choir of Vienna Cathedral but before he entered the service of the Esterházys in 1761.

Composer Biography

Haydn was acquainted with the prolific Viennese lutenist Carl von Kohaut (1726-84), and both men played at Baron Gottfried van Swieten's Sunday concerts.