Classical Composers and Their Patrons

Classical Composers and Patrons

• Classical music period spanned 1750-1820
• Composers wrote instrumental music for patrons and the general public
• Composers like Haydn, Bach, Boccherini, and Salieri were influential figures

Middle Classical Composers

• Franz Joseph Haydn (1732-1809): Known as "Papa" Haydn, he established the symphony and string quartet forms. Influential on later composers.
• Johann Christian Bach (1735-1782): Became tutor to the British royal family, creating a lighter and more appealing style of Classical music. Well-respected for his public concerts.
• Luigi Boccherini (1743-1805): An Italian cello player, he served in the Spanish royal court, composing five-part string quintets.

Late Classical Composers

• Antonio Salieri (1750-1825): Influential figure in Vienna, especially for court music. A teacher and a composer.
• Muzio Clementi (1752-1832): One of first piano virtuosos. Composed challenging piano sonatas. Had a piano competition against Mozart.
• Luigi Cherubini (1760-1842): Italian composer, conductor, and teacher, who was prominent in Paris. Wrote in various musical styles, including opera.
• Johann Nepomuk Hummel (1778-1837): A gifted pianist, a student of Mozart. Known for innovative compositions, highly expressive.
• Samuel Wesley (1766-1837): Nicknamed "the English Mozart," composer of church music. Well-regarded for organ improvisations.
• Jan Ladislav Dussek (1760-1812): Czech composer, one of first to position a piano sideways for audience viewing. More adventurous compositional style compared to Mozart.