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.
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