Joseph Haydn
The Complete Symphonies
Philharmonia Hungarica
Antal Dorati, conductor
Decca
Though there are better individual performances of Haydn’s various symphonies, this remains the finest complete set recorded. Consider the early works: the period-instrument folks have had their say, especially in this music, but where will you find more clearly etched bass lines (Symphony No. 16), finer horns and timpani (finale of Symphony No. 13), or a harpsichord continuo that stays in the background and doesn’t flatten Haydn’s dynamics by turning each symphony into a keyboard concerto?
Just listen to Dorati’s band rip into the opening of Symphony No. 48; hear the wailing oboes at the start of the “Farewell” Symphony; or notice the intense string playing in “La Passione.” Where will you find a more rustic trio in Symphony No. 88’s minuet, such brilliance from the C-alto horns in Symphony No. 90, or a more consistent set of “London” symphonies? Bottom line: you won’t. By rights this set should never go out of print: it remains a landmark in the history of recordings, this very reasonably priced limited edition remaining a mandatory acquisition.
- David Hurwitz
