Anecdotes of Great Musicians/Anecdote 232
232.—A COMPLIMENT FROM HAYDN.
In a broad course of musical reading one is continually coming across scathing criticisms and slighting remarks made by the great musicians concerning each other's works. But it is natural perhaps, that men of so great genius should see the world through their own spectacles and not feel like allowing another man credit for seeing it through his.
But, on the other hand, we have many instances showing the thorough appreciation some have had for the works of others, and for the promise they gave of greater things. Haydn was one of the best dispositioned men, and from him we would naturally expect to hear pleasant things and gentle criticisms.
When Cherubini first met Haydn, in Vienna, in 1805, the latter was seventy-three years of age, while Cherubini was still in the forties, and just beginning to compose the works that made him famous. The old veteran handed to the younger man one of his latest compositions, remarking—
"Permit me to style myself your musical father, and to call you my son."
No greater compliment could have been paid the younger man. Encouraged and impressed by Haydn's friendliness, Cherubini could not, on parting, restrain his tears.