Franz Joseph Haydn (the composer)

Franz Joseph Haydn was an Austrian composer, often called the "Father of the Symphony" and "Father of the String Quartet," because he significantly shaped these musical forms. Living from 1732 to 1809, he was a key figure in the Classical era, known for his inventive melodies, clear structures, and humor in music. Haydn worked mostly for the Esterházy family, creating numerous symphonies, chamber music, and operas that helped define the musical style of his time. His work greatly influenced later composers like Mozart and Beethoven, and his innovations laid the foundation for modern Western classical music.