Ep 17. Now Hear This "Haydn: King Of Strings"

Now Hear This "Haydn: King Of Strings" is a fascinating episode of Great Performances season 47 that delves into the world of classical music. The show is expertly hosted by renowned conductor Scott Yoo, who takes viewers on a journey through the life and works of legendary composer Franz Joseph Haydn.

Throughout the episode, Yoo explores Haydn's prolific musical output, particularly his string quartets. He introduces us to some of his favorite quartets and provides fascinating insight into the ways in which Haydn revolutionized the string quartet form. For many, Haydn is referred to as the "father of the string quartet", and it's easy to see why in this episode.

In addition to his music, Now Hear This "Haydn: King Of Strings" also takes a look at the man behind the music. Yoo gives viewers a glimpse into Haydn's personal life, describing his close relationship with Mozart and his strained relationship with his own family.

As always, the performances in this episode are simply breathtaking. Yoo brings together a group of talented artists to perform some of Haydn's most beautiful compositions, including his String Quartet in E-flat Major, Op. 20, No. 1. Watching these world-class musicians play together is a true treat for classical music fans.

What sets this episode apart from many other classical music documentaries is Yoo's easy-to-understand explanations of the music and its historical context. He breaks down the complex musical techniques in a way that makes them accessible to everyone, even those with no prior knowledge of classical music. This makes Now Hear This "Haydn: King Of Strings" a perfect introduction for anyone who wants to learn more about the genre.

The episode also features interviews with some of the musicians involved with the performance, including violinist Erin Keefe and cellist Nina Lee. They share their own thoughts on Haydn's music and what it's like to perform it live. These insights add an extra layer of depth to the episode and allow viewers to see the music from multiple perspectives.

Overall, Now Hear This "Haydn: King Of Strings" is a fantastic addition to the Great Performances series. It celebrates the legacy of one of the greatest composers of all time and introduces his music to a new generation. If you're a fan of classical music or simply curious about the genre, this episode is a must-see.