Took composition lessons and served as valet-accompanist for Nicola Porpora, during which Haydn received practical instruction in singing, composition, and the Italian language, eventually crediting Porpora with teaching him “the true fundamentals of composition”.
Porpora engaged Haydn in his service during his years in Vienna, including a period spent together in Mannersdorf am Leithagebirge, where Haydn assisted him while Porpora continued giving singing lessons. Though Porpora’s manner could be harsh, Haydn later acknowledged that the experience was formative for his musical development.
