Of Haydn’s three surviving violin concerti, the C-major concerto is certainly the most impressive and most often played one. The young Haydn composed the work for Luigi Tomasini (1741–1808) who played first violin and later became leader in Prince Esterházy’s orchestra. The large range, numerous double stops and other virtuoso figures of his part attest to Tomasini’s outstanding instrumental skills. The three-movement concerto is a typical example of the transitional period between the Baroque and Viennese Classicism. The sonata-form opening movement is characterised by dotted, subtle and speech-like rhythms. The F-major slow movement betrays an influence of Vivaldi’s concerti. The vigorous triple-time, dance-like finale – a characteristic 18th-century Italian movement type – affords an exceptional opportunity for the soloist to flaunt his virtuoso credentials.