Haydn: Symphony No. 96 in D major 'Miracle' - download (MP3 & FLAC)

Haydn at his best! Three of his most exciting symphonies on a new CD from Salzburg.

recorded in the Perelman Theatre, Kimmel Centre, Philadelphia, USA, 30 September - 1 October 2012

After studying with Franz Schreker, Goldschmidt was set to become one of the most significant of 20th-century German composers. However, in 1933 he was sacked and in 1935, fortunate enough to be interviewed by a Gestapo officer whose daughter was studying piano, he was allowed to leave for England. However, here he was a misfit in the musical scene, earning a living by teaching and some conducting. Only at the very end of his life did he begin to achieve recognition. These recordings, from his own collection, allow us to judge his ability as a conductor of a classical work and, though several hearings may be needed, his stature as a composer.

Master of the classical symphony, form and drama, Haydn excels in achieving maximum effect and expression in his music. Symphony No. 96 in particular, a majestic symphony, received the following review in March 1791 on its premiere:

“…never was there a richer musical treat... [Symphony No. 96] was pronounced to be the most wonderful composition, but the first movement in particular rises in grandeur of subject, and in rich variety of air and passion, beyond even any of his own productions.”