November 08, 2025

Michael Haydn (1737-1806)

54 minutes

This week, Donald Macleod explores the life and music of the often overlooked younger Haydn brother, Michael. From his early years in Vienna to his long tenure in Salzburg, Michael Haydn’s career was shaped by family ties, shifting patronage, and ecclesiastical politics. His relationship with the Mozart family ranged from friendly collaboration to bitter rivalry, and his music—both sacred and secular—reflected the changing demands of the church and court. As he aged, Michael faced new opportunities and challenges, including a long-awaited reunion with his brother Joseph and a prestigious job offer that stirred unexpected doubts.

Requiem in C minor pro defuncto Archiepiscopo Sigismund, MH 155

Symphony No 32 in D Major, P 23

Missa Sancti Aloysii, MH 257

Concerto for Harpsichord and Viola in C major, MH 41

Missa Sanctae Crucis, MH 56

Symphony in B flat major, MH 82

Trumpet Concerto in C major, MH 60

Die Hochzeit auf der Alm

Notturno in F major, MH 185

Missa Sancti Hieronymi

Symphony No 24 in A major, P 15

Tenuisti manum, MH 695

Missa Quadragesimalis, MH 552

Divertimento in C major, P 98

Ninfe inbelli

Missa Sancta Theresiae

Der Obersulzer Wein, MH 697

Abendlied, MH 784

Trinklied im Freien, MH 790

Flute Concerto in D Major MH 81

Divertimento in C, MH 600

Missa sub titulo Sancti Leopoldi, MH 837

Endimione: Vado per un momento

Presented by Donald Macleod.

Produced by Chris Taylor for BBC Audio Wales & West.

For full track listings, including artist and recording details, and to listen to the pieces featured in full (for 30 days after broadcast) head to the series page for Michael Haydn https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m002lcjr.

And you can delve into the A-Z of all the composers we’ve featured on Composer of the Week here: http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/3cjHdZlXwL7W41XGB77X3S0/composers-a-to-z.

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By BBC Radio 3

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