Haydn   By: John F. Runciman (1866-1916)

Haydn by John F. Runciman is a captivating biography that delves into the life and accomplishments of one of classical music's most celebrated composers. Runciman's extensive research and insightful analysis provide a comprehensive account of Haydn's life, offering readers a fascinating glimpse into the world of a musical genius.

The book takes readers on a journey through Haydn's childhood in Austria, his early career as a choirboy, and his eventual rise to prominence as a composer. Runciman meticulously examines the historical and social context of Haydn's time, shedding light on the challenges and opportunities that shaped his musical development.

What sets this biography apart is Runciman's ability to intertwine Haydn's personal life with his artistic evolution. The author explores the composer's relationships, friendships, and collaborations, allowing readers to gain a deeper understanding of the influences that drove his creative output. From his enduring friendship with Mozart to his influential role as a mentor to Beethoven, Haydn's impact on the classical music scene becomes vividly apparent.

Runciman's prose is eloquent and engaging, making the biography accessible to both music enthusiasts and general readers alike. The author skillfully balances detailed musical analysis with anecdotes and personal stories, capturing the essence of Haydn's character and artistic vision. Whether discussing the complexities of his symphonies or the nuances of his string quartets, Runciman's insightful commentary enhances our appreciation of Haydn's singular genius.

Haydn's prolific output is meticulously documented throughout the book, with Runciman providing a comprehensive overview of his symphonies, chamber music, operas, and oratorios. The author examines the evolution of his musical style and his innovative contributions to classical composition, cementing Haydn's legacy as a true trailblazer of his time.

Despite its many strengths, the book could have benefitted from a more concise narrative structure at certain points. At times, the chronological progression feels slightly disjointed, and certain sections may have benefitted from further exploration or contextualization. Nevertheless, these minor shortcomings do not detract significantly from the overall quality of the biography.

In conclusion, Haydn by John F. Runciman is an insightful and comprehensive account of one of classical music's great composers. Runciman's extensive research and engaging prose bring Haydn's life and music to life, making this biography a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of his profound influence on the classical music tradition.

First Page:

It is, as a rule, inexpedient to begin a book with the peroration. Children are spared the physic of the moral till they have sucked in the sweetness of the tale. Adults may draw from a book what of good there is in it, and close it before reaching the chapter usually devoted to fine writing. But the case of Haydn is extraordinary. One can only sustain interest in a biography of the man by an ever present sense that he is scarcely to be written about. All an author can do is, in few or many words, to put a conundrum to the reader a conundrum that cannot even be stated in exciting terms. This apparition and wonder worker of the eighteenth century, Franz Joseph Haydn, is compact of paradoxes and contradictions. Born a peasant, and remaining in thought and speech a peasant all his days, he became the friend of princes, dukes, and, generally speaking, very high society indeed and this in days when class distinctions had to be observed... Continue reading book >>