Haydn in London

With the death of his patron Prince Nikolaus Esterházy in 1790, Haydn became a free agent, and Johann Peter Salomon seized the opportunity to bring Europe’s most famous composer to Soho. Haydn's music already dominated the fashionable Hanover Square Rooms, especially after the death of the London-based Johann Christian Bach (youngest son of Johann Sebastian), whose Symphony in G minor opens the concert's second half.

Haydn's Cello Concerto No. 2 was premiered at Hanover Square in 1784. A decade later, he embarked on his second trip to London, and from this period come two of his best-known symphonies, earning nicknames through their popularity: the "Military" (No. 100), and the "London" (No. 104).

The English Baroque Soloists have this music in their blood, and their use of period instruments casts these works in an entirely fresh light. They are joined by cellist Christophe Coin, making his MCO debut. Historically-informed performance specialist Peter Whelan returns to direct after a “thrilling” (The Times), "dazzling" (The Observer) and “unbeatable” (Scherzo) debut with the orchestra in 2024.

Pre-concert talk:
Before the concert, join conductor Peter Whelan and historian Katherine Alcock for a fascinating pre-concert talk. Step back into Georgian London as they explore Joseph Haydn’s time in the city, the rich musical life of 18th-century England, and the remarkable 300-year history of St Martin-in-the-Fields. Discover how London shaped Haydn and his music in this insightful introduction to the evening’s performance.

The talk starts at 18:45 in St Martin's Hall, entry is included with concert ticket.

(Photo credit: Roscoe Rutter)