Search results

Start typing

A group surrounds a harpsichord playing instruments
Music in the Royal Collection

Many members of the royal family were talented musicians

JOHN HOPPNER (1758-1810)

Franz Joseph Haydn (1732-1809)

1791-92

RCIN 406987

Franz Joseph Haydn first came to England in January 1791. His arrival sparked much interest, no doubt heightened by the bow given to him by George IV, then Prince of Wales, at a court ball at St James's Palace. From March onwards, Haydn played a regular concert series at the Hanover Square Rooms, a venue patronised by both royalty and aristocracy. In December that year the prince invited Haydn to visit the Duke and Duchess of York at their country estate. Music was played almost perpetually during this trip; Haydn conducted symphonies for the pianoforte while the prince played the violoncello. This portrait was commissioned by the prince during this first highly successful visit to England.


    The income from your ticket contributes directly to The Royal Collection Trust, a registered charity. The aims of The Royal Collection Trust are the care and conservation of the Royal Collection, and the promotion of access and enjoyment through exhibitions, publications, loans and educational activities.