WFCC

Classical Fact

For thirteen years Franz Josef Haydn had worked exclusively as kapellmeister (Music Master) for Prince Nicolaus Esterhazy and his family. When the Prince died, Haydn was left a large pension on condition that he keep the title of Esterhazy kapellmeister. However, the new Prince was more interested in using his money on other trappings of his new royal position. Prince Anton fired the Esterhazy orchestra and the result was that there was now more money for Haydn's annuity and he also gained the freedom to travel, an important factor in securing Haydn's international reputation.