Description
Written in the relatively unusual key of E major, this early Haydn partita retains the character of aristocratic entertainment music common to keyboard works of its time, while showing the young composer's curiosity in its modulations and ornamentation. Across roughly twelve minutes, the movements shift in mood, calling for a clear tone and a singing sense of phrasing.
Suite-form works from the Baroque era; Bach's Partitas, a sequence of varied dances, are ranked among the greatest keyboard works.
About the Composer
Franz Joseph Haydn (1732-1809)
Franz Joseph Haydn was a leading Classical-era composer from Austria who spent much of his career in service to the Esterhazy family. Often called the "father of the symphony" and the "father of the string quartet," he helped establish the Viennese Classical style with clear forms and witty invention. His numerous keyboard sonatas also served as a bridge to Mozart and Beethoven. This site includes 60 of his works, including movements from Sonatas Hob. XVI:27 and 28.
View all works by Haydn →