The relatively minor role of Haydn's 46 surviving songs in his overall oeuvre is considered one of the many injustices stemming from a 'foolish underestimation' of Haydn in the second half of the 19th century.
Critical Reception
Despite some critical voices, Haydn's first collection of Lieder was a success, leading to numerous reprints by various publishers across Europe.
Composer Biography
Haydn had a rivalry with Kapellmeister Leopold Hofmann, deliberately setting three songs to the same texts Hofmann had used to demonstrate the difference in their compositional quality.
Performer Biography
Pianist Jan Vermeulen has a private collection of six historical fortepianos, reflecting his dedication to interpreting classical, romantic, and impressionistic repertoire on period instruments.
Historical Context
The emergence of Viennese song in the late 1770s coincided with Emperor Joseph II's efforts to establish a German-speaking National Theatre and National Lyric Theatre.
Composition History
Haydn's English Canzonettas were inspired by Anne Hunter, wife of Scottish surgeon John Hunter, who performed one of her poems set to music by Haydn's pupil Ignaz Pleyel.
Compositional Technique
Haydn's English Canzonettas show a greater variety of moods than his German songs, ranging from lively 'sea pieces' to dramatic and gloomy atmospheres.
