Joseph Haydn (HIGH-din), or "Papa Haydn," as Mozart called him, is also called the "Father of the Symphony." He composed 104 symphonies. His parents were amateur musicians who played several instruments and loved to sing.

When Haydn was only six years old his parents sent him away to a church school, hoping to prepare him for the priesthood. When he reached eight he was invited to sing in a boys' choir at St. Stephen's Cathedral in Vienna. He also had lessons in voice, violin, and keyboard but little general education other than a bit of Latin. Haydn wanted most of all to compose, but he received very little instruction. He was dismissed from the choir when he cut off the pigtail of the boy in front of him. Then almost seventeen, he earned a living by giving lessons and occasionally performing.

He also studied composition and began composing. Haydn worked twenty-eight years as a court musician for the Esterhazy family of Austria. Although he was considered a "servant," he was treated well and was happy that he could devote himself entirely to music. Prince Esterhazy was a music lover who appreciated Haydn's great talent. Since the Prince was his employer, Haydn wrote most of his music for the court. This included music for worship.

Prince Esterhazy entertained lavishly, and Haydn wrote delightful music for the palace parties. With everyone dressed in finest apparel, parties were truly palace style shows. The food and entertainment were the best. Haydn and his orchestra played beautiful music for all to enjoy.

Haydn wrote long introductions for many of his symphonies. Perhaps he wanted to give the people time to take their seats and stop talking. He didn't play the really pretty music until everyone had time to become quiet. Notice the long introduction for Symphony 104, the London. Haydn has more than two minutes of "please sit down and shut your mouth" music.

Haydn's marriage was not a happy one. His wife had little appreciation for his music. It is reported that she sometimes used strips of his manuscripts for curling her hair or lined her cake tins with his music sheets.

Haydn was famous and beloved all over Europe. He spent three years in London where he wrote his twelve London symphonies. These include: No. 94, the Surprise; No. 101, the Clock; No.103, the Drum Roll; and No.104, the London, his last symphony.