Joseph Haydn had a close friendship with Luigi Tomasini, an exceptional violinist and concertmaster in the Esterházy orchestra, who was discovered by Prince Paul Anton Esterházy during a trip to Italy.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Joseph Haydn believed his isolation from the world while working for the Esterházy court allowed him to become original, as no one nearby could make him doubt himself.
Historical Context
The Esterházy princes, who employed Joseph Haydn, were Hungarian Paladins of Vienna's Imperial Court and maintained an impressive court due to their immense wealth.
Composition History
Joseph Haydn found his lifetime post in 1761 as Vice Kapellmeister to Prince Paul Anton Esterházy at his castle in Eisenstadt, which was then part of the Kingdom of Hungary.
Performer Biography
Midori Seiler, the violinist on this album, plays a 17th-century Andrea Guarneri Baroque violin with a Baroque bow by Bastian Mathesius from Berlin.
Composition History
Of the eleven violin concertos attributed to Joseph Haydn, only four have been authenticated, with one in D major having been lost.
Composer Biography
Joseph Haydn, the composer, described his musical beginnings by saying he had no real teacher and learned through practical experience in singing, playing instruments, and composing.
