JOSEPH HAYDN (1732-1809): Baryton Trios Hob.XI:9, 55, 58, 61, 69 and 87.

Description: Early in Haydn’s time at the Esterháza palace, Prince Nicolaus took a liking to the hypnotic sound of the baryton – a bowed instrument with an extra set of strings that vibrate sympathetically or are plucked for tonal contrast. The baryton, a cross between a viola da gamba and a lirone, was considered the pinnacle of 18th-century aristocratic instruments, and the outstanding beauty of Haydn’s trios represent its final renaissance, placing this remarkable antique firmly into the poised and tasteful Classical style of the day. Valencia Baryton Project.