was an Austrian born composer is regarded as one of the most important influences of the classical era during the 18th century. In 1740, at the age of 8, Haydn was recruited to sing at St. Stephens Cathedral in Vienna, where he attended for nine years, learning to play the violin and keyboard. By the age of 17 Haydn was expelled from both the cathedral choir and the choir school as a result of his voice changing. After being expelled, Haydn supported himself by teaching violin and keyboard as well as Street serenading until becoming an accompanist and assistant to Italian composer Nicola Porpora in 1752. In 1761, Haydn was named Music Director at the palace of the wealthy Esterhazy Family, where he stayed for thirty years. During this time,
