Haydn: Symphonies

Bernstein was periodically accused of self-indulgence in other repertoire. That’s a charge that could never stick in these joyous performances of three G major symphonies…Rather, there is grace,... — BBC Music Magazine, October 2018, 4 out of 5 stars More…

Release Date: 15th Jun 2018
Catalogue No: 746504
Label: C Major

Haydn: Symphony No. 94 in G Major 'Surprise'

Wiener Philharmoniker
Leonard Bernstein

Haydn: Symphony No. 92 in G major 'Oxford'

Wiener Philharmoniker
Leonard Bernstein

Haydn: Symphony No. 88 in G major

Wiener Philharmoniker
Leonard Bernstein

Haydn: Sinfonia Concertante in B flat major, Op. 84, Hob. I / 105

Wiener Philharmoniker
Leonard Bernstein

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Haydn is generally seen as one of the main originators of the 'Viennese sound', the inimitable style of playing which is still very much alive today and is particularly cultivated by the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. This orchestra has Haydn’s music in its blood, and its interpretation of his symphonies demonstrates a supreme confidence, musical sophistication and lightness of touch. As a noted American music critic remarked following a performance of the Oxford Symphony conducted by Leonard Bernstein: 'Let’s have no further argument: the Vienna Philharonic is the world’s greatest orchestra'. Bernstein's interpretations of the symphonies have consistently met with unreserved critical acclaim. He, of all conductors, possessed precisely the qualities which Haydn’s music requires: grace, charm and a generous measure of wit.

Reviews

October 2018

Bernstein was periodically accused of self-indulgence in other repertoire. That’s a charge that could never stick in these joyous performances of three G major symphonies…Rather, there is grace, wit and charm aplenty, with the Wiener Philharmoniker on top form and Bernstein clearly enjoying every moment…This feels like chamber music being made among friends.

Awards Issue 2018

We hear Haydn differently now: the period-practice boom has given rise to new ways of playing and interpreting his music. Bernstein’s tempos are not fast by any means and some may be heard as faintly sluggish…But Haydn is eternal; and to hear his music played like this with such palpable love is always a treat.

Haydn: Symphonies

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