In 2009 the music world around the globe will commemorate the 200th anniversary of the death of Joseph Haydn (1732-1809).  Music lovers all over the world will concentrate on the life and work of this eminent composer, who started his career as a member of the Vienna Boy’s Choir. 
The Haydn Society Vienna plans “A Feast for Haydn” around the Haydn memorial in Mariahilf on the occasion of Haydn’s birthday on March 31, 2009, and a festive mass on the anniversary of his death on May 31, 2009.  Already set are performances of the oratorio “The Creation” on March 27, 2009, in the Grand Hall of the Austrian Academy of Sciences – 199 years to the day when Haydn appeared in public for the last time and attended a performance of his “The Creation” to the enthusiastic applause of the audience (among them Ludwig van Beethoven).