Presents

Franz Josef Haydn

Three String Trios for Violin, Viola & Cello, Op.53

Josef Haydn (1732-1809) needs no introduction. While most chamber music players have either played or heard his string quartets, few are familiar with his string trios. Among the best are his Op.53, each of two movements.

Haydn's trios have their origins in the music of the divertimento. Haydn was a leader in the development of the string trio at that time, as in that of the string quartet. About 80 trios by him for various combinations are known, as well as some 126 trios with baryton composed by Haydn for his patron Prince Esterhazy, who loved to play the baryton, an 18th-century bowed stringed instrument similar to the bass viol. The three trios of Opus 53 are identical with a set piano sonatas which Haydn wrote in 1784. It is not known which version was original. As piano works they are pleasant, but in the string versions they gain significance and depth through the more colorful part writing.

These trios are historically important as they are among the first in the emerging Vienna Classical Style. However, they can stand on their own and make fine program choices where a shorter trio is required.

 Parts: $12.95