It’s tough to be the younger of two brothers, especially when your big brother is Joseph Haydn, destined to compose 102 symphonies and the blockbuster oratorio The Creation. Joseph was cosseted by royalty and became an international celebrity.
A lesser boy might have despaired and taken up bricklaying, but Michael Haydn was a gifted musician, and he made his own way in the world of music, distinct from his big brother’s path. Although the brothers did not come from wealth or privilege – their father was a wheelwright who enjoyed folk singing with his children, their mother worked as a cook – they were both recognized from an early age for their singing ability. At eight years of age, each apprenticed to the choir of St. Stephen’s Cathedral in Vienna. (Michael was regarded as the better singer.) By the time he was 12, Michael was playing his own compositions on the organ at the Cathedral.
In 1762, when he was 25, Michael was appointed Kappelmeister at Salzburg, where he remained for 44 years. During that time, he wrote more than 360 compositions, both instrumental and vocal. He often crossed paths with Mozart, who regarded his work highly.
Michael Haydn has been overshadowed by his big brother, but the Santa Cruz Chorale is here to whisk away that shadow. We are delighted to bring you Michael Haydn’s sprightly Run Ye Shepherds to the Light, a work full of joyful surprises. Chorus! Orchestra! Soprano solo!
Soprano Lori Schulman joins the Chorale for this premier. You’ve likely heard her versatile, crystal-clear voice with the Ensemble Monterey Chamber Orchestra, New Music Works, Santa Cruz Opera Project, and Santa Cruz Shakespeare 2025 (Into the Woods).
We think you’ll love this gem from a composer you may never before have heard. And you will wonder, where has this kid brother been hiding? With a nod to kid brothers (and sisters) everywhere, the singers of the Santa Cruz Chorale say, time to let the kid brother shine.
Get your tickets now for Christmas with the Chorale.
Saturday December 20, 2025 8:00 pm
Sunday December 21, 2025 4:00 pm
Holy Cross Church
126 High St.
Santa Cruz, CA 95060