Johann Baptist Vanhal: Short Composer Profiles (Enhanced Edition‪)‬

Includes audio extracts


One of the most underrated composers of the classical era, Johann Baptist Vanhal (1739–1813) enjoyed a long and successful career in Vienna as a freelance composer. His symphonies are among the most important works of their time and were admired by Haydn, who is known to have directed performances of them. He also composed prolifically in a wide range of other genres, including church music. A highly respected figure in the Viennese musical world, Vanhal is known to have played string quartets with Haydn, Mozart and Dittersdorf.


This profile of Vanhal includes more than 30 minutes of music by the composer. Audio samples are contained in the text: just tap to listen while you read.