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  • Essay / Haydn and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: Two giants of...

    From that moment on, Haydn's life and daily activity revolved around the magnificent Esterháza palace and estate. Because he was quite isolated at the palace, other composers did not do so. It did not significantly influence Haydn's music. Instead, he developed his own very original style. It was still the era of patronage, where music was the privilege of the nobility and where public concerts were rare. When the prince died in 1790, Haydn's obligations became much lighter. Although he remained in the service of the Esterházys, he was able to settle permanently in Vienna and make several visits to London. During the last years of his life, Haydn's relentless creativity continued unabated until he finally retired to Vienna. He died quietly on May 31, 1809, following the capitulation of the city to Napoleon's troops, who a few days earlier had ordered a guard of honor in front of Haydn's house.