Gregor Joseph Werner (1695-1766) is virtually unknown today, but held the post of Director of Music at the court of Prince Esterhazy for over 30 years. Supplanted by his successor at court, Joseph Haydn, the older composer had however been highly regarded by his contemporaries, as is testified by the numerous copies made of his works. His Musical Instrumental Calendar is a collection of witty and curious miniatures associated with the seasons ordered according to individual months, including depictions of farmers, shepherds, layabouts, croaking frogs, thunderstorms and even an earthquake.
