Joseph Haydn (1732-1809)

    Known as the "Father of the Symphony" and the "Father of the String Quartet," Haydn is one of the most prominent composers of the Classical Period. Haydn spent most of his life employed as the Kappelmeister to the Esterhazy family, a prominent Austrian family. As a court musician, Haydn developed his compositional style by writing in almost every musical genre. Haydns' most important works include his 104 symphonies and 82 string quartets.