Haydn: Chief-Court Composer

During Haydn’s time, he had a long list of responsibilities and requirements that he had to uphold, according to his contract. From his behavior and conduct to what he got, in terms of promotions, Haydn’s contract was an interesting indeed. His duties/contract also showed that court composers had a strict life. Court composers have to follow everything strictly by the book or they could get fired. However, they were in charge of what kind of music to write. According to Haydn’s contract, he was initially the Vice-court composer, which required him to follow orders from the Head-Court composer and the Prince of Esterhazy. He had free reign over the musical performances of the orchestra and was regarded and treated as a member of the household. …show more content…
He couldn’t be shown as overbearing or demanding to the other musicians. He must also be in uniform (white stockings, one pigtail, and white linens) when summoned before the court. He couldn’t show any vulgarity, but be upright when before his musicians. This meant that he couldn’t be too familiar with them because there had to be a line between the musicians and their director. This was to maintain a structure within the court and show respect. He couldn’t afford to lose the respect of his musicians. To court composers, respect meant a lot because without respect, they couldn’t control their choirs and their music would not be taken seriously. If there were to be any disputes between the musicians, Haydn had to settle them himself. He couldn’t disturb the Prince of Esterhazy or the Head Kapellmeister with petty arguments unless it is too important to ignore or he couldn’t resolve