In 1787, Haydn composed six string quartets published as Opus 50 for the King of Prussia, Frederick William II. Sometimes referred to Haydn's "Prussian" Quartets, the set is a contrast to the Opus 33 Quartets in that they are more intellectual and experimental than the Opus 33 Quartets which were designed more for the broad public.
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| KING FREDERICK WILLIAM II OF PRUSSIA |
Haydn dedicated the Opus 50 Quartets to the Prussian King after receiving a golden ring as a thank you gift from Frederick William II for the copies of Haydn's six "Paris" Symphonies (numbers 82-87) sent to him by the composer. The King was also an amateur cellist and as such, the quartets feature several passages where the cello part is highlighted.
VIDEO WALKTHROUGHS
Opus 50 No. 2
Opus 50 No. 3
Opus 50 No. 4
Opus 50 No. 5 "Dream"
Opus 50 No. 6 "Frog"
