How did Haydn's music affect music today?

Haydn's music laid the foundation for the Classical style, influencing the development of symphonies, string quartets, and sonatas. His innovative use of form, structure, and thematic development set standards that composers like Mozart and Beethoven would build upon. Additionally, Haydn's emphasis on clarity and balance in composition continues to resonate in contemporary music, shaping the way modern musicians approach orchestration and ensemble writing. Overall, his contributions helped establish the framework for Western art music that endures today.