Famous Composers: The Life and Work of Joseph Haydn - DVD

Mozart was born into a musical family and his extraordinary musical talent was evident at an early age. As a child prodigy he traveled to all the capitals of Europe and developed into one of the greatest composers of all time. The video uncovers his delightful character and explores the difficulties he had to overcome to to establish himself as an independent artist in age when musicians were simply seen as the servants of the rich and powerful. The video ends with a brief overview of Mozart's work useful to experienced music lovers and newcomers alike. On the soundtrack some of his most characteristic compositions are played by members of the Elysium ensemble.

Handel was born in the small German town of Halle. His father was Surgeon to the local ruler a certain Duke of Weissenfels. From an early Age he displayed a precocious musical talent. His local church organist was a fine musician and teacher so Handel's talent was carefully nurtured. After a spell playing the organ in a local church he left for Hamburg determined to become a composer of operas. He met with immediate success, a success which He enjoyed for the rest of his life. He settled in England and became a national institution. The film outlines his life and is followed by a brief overview of his works.

Beethoven was born into a musical family in Bonn. He was well taught and generally well educated. With the support of his local ruler he went to Vienna to further his musical studies. He was soon celebrated as a pianist and composer and spent the rest of his life in Vienna supported by generous patrons and free to compose as he wished. In spite of going stone deaf he was able to continue composing, producing some of his greatest works in his later years. The film details his life and times and is followed by an overview of his works.