When did Florian Gassmann establish the Tonkünstler-Societät?
Florian Gassmann established the Tonkünstler-Societät in 1771. Empress Maria Theresa issued a decree on the 23rd of February 1771 authorizing the founding of the Society.
Questions about Tonkünstler-Societät
Short answers, pulled from the story.
What was the core purpose of the Tonkünstler-Societät organization?
The core purpose of the Tonkünstler-Societät was to support retired musicians and their families through financial aid. The group mounted benefit concerts starting in 1772 to generate necessary funds for this benevolent society.
How many performers participated in the Tonkünstler-Societät concert held on the 1st of April 1781?
A specific concert held on the 1st of April 1781 included 40 violins, 8 violas, 9 cellos, and 11 contrabasses totaling 92 instrumentalists alone. The chorus added another 54 voices including 28 sopranos and altos, 13 tenors, and 13 basses for an overall ensemble reaching 146 performers.
Why did Joseph Haydn refuse membership in the Tonkünstler-Societät initially?
Joseph Haydn refused to write further compositions without payment after signing up for membership in 1778. He was subsequently rejected for membership with his enrollment fee returned before relations finally reached an accommodation for Spring 1784 concerts.
When did the Tonkünstler-Societät cease operations due to political changes?
The organization endured until 1939 when National Socialist authorities abolished it on the 9th of March. Germany had annexed Austria the previous year during the Anschluss event leading to this termination.