Starting with the Esterházy Sonatas, Haydn consistently used the term 'sonata' instead of 'divertimento' and introduced a 'proper' slow Adagio as the middle movement.
Instruments
Ronald Brautigam performs on a fortepiano by Paul McNulty, made in Amsterdam in 1992, which is modeled after an Anton Gabriel Walter instrument from around 1795.
Recording & Production
This recording was made in August 1999 at Länna Church, Sweden, using Neumann KM130 microphones and a Tascam DA-30 DAT recorder.
Composer Biography
Joseph Haydn lived more than twice as long as Mozart; when he was born, Bach and Handel were in the middle of their careers, and when he died, Beethoven had already produced his 'Pastoral' Symphony.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Haydn's importance in music development is immense; he perfected the string quartet form and made similar contributions to the symphony and piano sonata genres.
Performer Biography
Ronald Brautigam, a Dutch pianist born in 1954, was awarded the Netherlands Music Prize in 1984 and has a reputation as a leading exponent of the fortepiano.
Composition History
The six sonatas Nos. 36-41 are known as 'Esterházy Sonatas' because they were dedicated to Prince Nikolaus Esterházy in their first authorized edition by Haydn.
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