Haydn Festival Lights Up Eisenstadt

In a region spilling over with classical tradition, the concert season is a beloved time of year. But Eisenstadt's annual Haydn Festival, held at the stunning Esterházy Palace, has an extra special place in many hearts. From September 6-16 this year, the Austro-Hungarian Haydn Orchestra will demonstrate its unique Eisenstadt, or Pannonian, style -- and show why the palace's Haydn Hall is famous throughout the world for its beauty and perfect acoustics.

This year's festival will focus on the influence of contemporary music, including American music, during Haydn's lifetime. The audience will have the rare opportunity to compare the sounds of period instrument ensembles with those of modern orchestras. Joseph Haydn composed many of his works for this hall and its particular acoustics. There is no greater tribute than a festival like this.