Haydn composed his Violin Concerto No. 1 in C major between 1761 and 1765 in Eisenstadt, while serving Prince Paul Anton Esterházy, to showcase the technique of his Konzertmeister, Luigi Tomasini.
Historical Context
Haydn was already well-known in Paris, even though he had never visited, due to the frequent publication of his works there starting in 1764.
Historical Context
The 'Paris' Symphonies were premiered by the Loge Olympique, a concert association in Paris with an imposing orchestra of sixty-five members, a mix of professionals and amateurs.
Cultural Impact
Symphony No. 85 is nicknamed 'La Reine de France' (The Queen of France), possibly because it was Queen Marie-Antoinette's favorite, and as a tribute to her role in introducing Viennese music to the Versailles court.
Interpretation
William Christie, the conductor, believes that the 'Paris' Symphonies are convincing even with fewer instruments than the large Loge Olympique orchestra for which they were conceived.
Composition History
Haydn's admission to the Viennese Masonic Lodge 'Zur wahren Eintracht' in February 1785 may have facilitated the commission for the 'Paris' Symphonies.
Composition History
The 'Paris' Symphonies were commissioned by the Comte d'Ogny, an amateur cellist, through the violinist and composer Joseph Bologne de Saint-George, also known as the Chevalier de Saint-George.
