Haydn: Symphonies 66 - 68

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
Béla Drahos came out of nowhere to record an excellent series of the Beethoven symphonies for Naxos. He has done a few of Naxos's Haydn volumes, too. This latest disc includes three superb, little-known works of Haydn in sparkling versions that will certainly win friends for the music. Haydn's imagination and technique are obvious everywhere in these pieces, and the clarity and lift of the playing bring every moment to life. You can tell that each musician is enjoying the participation in these performances, and when there is a special bit of fun--such as the hurdy-gurdy episode in the Minuet of No. 67--it comes off superbly. With 76 minutes of music on the well-recorded disc, it would be a worthwhile acquisition at full price. --Leslie Gerber

Tracks:

Symphony No. 55 In E Flat Major: Allegro di molto
Symphony No. 55 In E Flat Major: Adagio, ma semplicemente
Symphony No. 55 In E Flat Major: Menutto & Trio
Symphony No. 55 In E Flat Major: Finale: Presto
Symphony No. 56 In C Major.: Allegro di molto
Symphony No. 56 In C Major.: Adagio
Symphony No. 56 In C Major.: Menuet & Trio
Symphony No. 56 In C Major.: Finale: Prestissomo
Symphony No. 57 In D Major: Adagio - (Allegro)
Symphony No. 57 In D Major: Adagio
Symphony No. 57 In D Major: Menuet & Trio: Allegretto
Symphony No. 57 In D Major: Prestissimo

Tracks:

Symphony No. 58 In F Major: Allegro
Symphony No. 58 In F Major: Andante
Symphony No. 58 In F Major: Menuet alla zoppa - Trio - Un poco Allegretto
Symphony No. 58 In F Major: Finale: Presto
Symphony No. 59 A Major - Feuersymphonie: Presto
Symphony No. 59 A Major - Feuersymphonie: Andante o piu tosto Allegretto
Symphony No. 59 A Major - Feuersymphonie: Menuetto & Trio
Symphony No. 59 A Major - Feuersymphonie: Allegro assai
Symphony No. 60 In C Major - Per la commedia intitolata 'Il Distratto': Adagio - Allegro di molto
Symphony No. 60 In C Major - Per la commedia intitolata 'Il Distratto': Andante
Symphony No. 60 In C Major - Per la commedia intitolata 'Il Distratto': Menuetto & Trio
Symphony No. 60 In C Major - Per la commedia intitolata 'Il Distratto': Presto
Symphony No. 60 In C Major - Per la commedia intitolata 'Il Distratto': Adagio (di Lamentatione)
Symphony No. 60 In C Major - Per la commedia intitolata 'Il Distratto': Finale: Prestissimo

Tracks:

Symphony No. 61 In D Major: Vivace
Symphony No. 61 In D Major: Adagio
Symphony No. 61 In D Major: Menuet & Trio: Allegretto
Symphony No. 61 In D Major: Prestissimo
Symphony No. 62 In D Major: Allegro
Symphony No. 62 In D Major: Allegretto
Symphony No. 62 In D Major: Menuet & Trio: Allegretto
Symphony No. 62 In D Major: Finale: Allegro
Symphony No. 63 In C Major - La Roxelane: Versione seconda - Allegro
Symphony No. 63 In C Major - La Roxelane: Versione seconda - 'La Roxelane' Allegretto (o piu tosto allegro)
Symphony No. 63 In C Major - La Roxelane: Versione seconda - Menuet & Trio
Symphony No. 63 In C Major - La Roxelane: Versione seconda - Finale. Presto

Tracks:

Symphony No. 64 In A Major - Tempora mutantur: Allegro con spirito
Symphony No. 64 In A Major - Tempora mutantur: Largo
Symphony No. 64 In A Major - Tempora mutantur: Menuet & Trio: Allegretto
Symphony No. 64 In A Major - Tempora mutantur: Finale: Presto
Symphony No. 65 In A Major: Vivace e con spirito
Symphony No. 65 In A Major: Andante
Symphony No. 65 In A Major: Menuetto & Trio
Symphony No. 65 In A Major: Finale: Presto
Symphony No. 66 In B Flat Major: Allegro con brio
Symphony No. 66 In B Flat Major: Adagio
Symphony No. 66 In B Flat Major: Menuetto & Trio
Symphony No. 66 In B Flat Major: Finale: Scherzando e presto

Tracks:

Symphony No. 67 In F Major: Presto
Symphony No. 67 In F Major: Adagio
Symphony No. 67 In F Major: Menuetto & Trio
Symphony No. 67 In F Major: Finale: Allegro di molto - Adagio e cantabile - Allegro di molto
Symphony No. 68 In B Flat Major: Vivace
Symphony No. 68 In B Flat Major: Menuetto & Trio
Symphony No. 68 In B Flat Major: Adagio cantabile
Symphony No. 68 In B Flat Major: Finale: Presto
Symphony No. 69 In C Major - Laudon: Vivace
Symphony No. 69 In C Major - Laudon: Un poco adagio piu tosto andante
Symphony No. 69 In C Major - Laudon: Menuetto & Trio
Symphony No. 69 In C Major - Laudon: Finale: Presto

Customer Reviews:

Exploring the Haydn Symphonies -- Nos. 62,64,65 and More.......2006-08-03

Adam Fischer and the Austrio-Hungarian Haydn Orchestra have accomplished the daunting task of recording the complete Haydn symphonies. They share this accomplishment with Antal Dorati and the Philharmonica Hungarica and with a less familiar earlier cycle with Ernst Mazendorfer conducting the Vienna State Opera (for the Musical Heritage Society.) The Fisher recordings were made at Esterhaza using modern instruments but historic performance practices. The harpsichord continuo is not used. Fischer's Haydn cycle is available on eight multi-CD sets on Nimbus.

This 5-CD collection includes 15 Haydn symphonies, nos. 55 -- 69 which generally date from 1772 -- 1781. A small number of these symphonies may date from Haydn's so-called "sturm und drang" period, but most are later. During the time Haydn composed these works, he was preoccupied with composing opera. Thus, much of the material in these works is in the style of operatic overture, or of comic opera. In addition Haydn borrowed freely from other compositions or projects in composing these symphonies as his main compositional activity at the time was elsewhere. But these works still reflect the knowledge and skills Haydn had gained in writing for the orchestra. He was a composer who learned and grew continuously.

This set includes some relatively familiar works, beautifully played. As usual these works tend to have nicknames, such as the "Schoolmaster" symphony no. 55, or the "Fire" symphony, no. 59, or " La Roxelane" no. 63. But I want to concentrate in this review on three symphonies, two of which are rarities, for reasons which I will explain at the conclusion.

Symphony no. 64 in A major bears the nickname "Tempora mutantur" which may be Haydn's. The opening "allegro con spirito" has some piquant, sharp harmonies, unsusual for Haydn's time. The work opens with a quiet opening phrase, followed by a theatrical, lively main theme. The highlight of this work, as in much of Haydn, lies in the slow movement which bears the unusual, for him, marking of Largo. This is a broad, slow and detailed movement with much interplay between horn and strings. There is a stormy outburst in mid-movement which recalls the sturm und drang character of Haydn's earlier minor key symphonies. The minuet is short in light, in contrast to the two earlier movements with passages for horn and solo violin in the trio. The concluding presto alternates a quiet opening passage with a loud dramatic theme and, as does the Largo, features a lengthy and highly dramatic episode in the minor key.

Symphonies 62 and 65 are rarities, seldom recorded or performed. Yet they contain much fresh and worthwhile music. Symphony no. 62 in D major borrows material in its opening movement from the finale of its predecessor, the Symphony no. 53 in D major, L'Imperial. It opens with a lound flashy series of chords followed by a lyrical theme. The symphony also features a quirky allegretto which is based upon what appears to be a three-note accompaniment figure bounced back and forth among the instruments. Only in the brief coda does a melodic figure appear to join the accompaniment. The bright and lively theme of the minuet is taken by the strings with a wind choir in the trio. The final allegro again alternates a quiet opening passage with a lively theme. It includes a minor-key interlude and a big fanfare at the close.

Symphony no. 65 in A major is also rarely heard. The first movement is in the style of an opera overture, with a dramatic, bright opening theme contrasting with a lovely lyrical second theme. Unusually, the opening chords return in the recapitulation only in a much subdued form. The slow movement is one of Haydn's most unusual. It involves a waving, sinuous theme in the violins punctuated by the horns. It is an odd, wayward movement which Haydn scholar H.Robbins Landon has described as of "almost lunatic irrationality." The minuet features the use of an odd grace note in some measures, making the rhythm seem to shift from 3/4 to 4/4. The final presto is in the form of a call and response movement as passages for the horn alternate repeatedly with answers in the strings.

With the reviews of symphonies 62,64, and 65, I have completed a survey of Haydn's 104 numbered symphonies on this site using various conductors, orchestras, and labels. I have enjoyed getting to know this great body of music in some detail. I hope these reviews will encourage their readers to explore the symphonies of Haydn.

Robin Friedman

Worthy of Papa Haydn's Approval!.......2000-08-10

Conductor Adam Fischer has accomplished what few other of his peers can claim: he has recorded all of Joseph Haydn's 104 Symphonies, which are available in a series of volumes (albiet not together in a massive set, which would be enjoyable). Not only has Fischer done this, but his renditions of Haydn's works are utterly superb! My own favorite Haydn symphony has long been the 48th, his "Maria Theresia." The energy and passion of the work, I submit, exceeds anything else the composer ever accomplished in his symphonic endeavors. And Fischer captures the 48th symphony with staggering accuracy and dynamic range. This point perhaps best summarizes ALL of the conductor's versions of Haydn's symphonies. Working with the polished and richly-textured Austro-Hungarian Haydn Orchestra (a name perfectly suited for a group attempting these works) Fischer manages to capture the essential excitement, warmth, emotional surge, soothing undertones, and most importantly, the sheer musical vision of each of Haydn's symphonies.

While these works come as a set, one should not make the tragic mistake of interpreting these symphonies as a long, entertwined linkage of Haydnian thought; each of Haydn's 104 symphonic visions are unique, vastly different expressions of musical observation and explorations of musical intellect. He wrote one hundred and four symphonies! That number itself bespeaks the epic breadth of Papa Haydn's musical vision; Mozart had good reason to refer to his close friend as "The Master"!

Tracks:

Allegro Con Brio
Adagio
Menuetto
Finale: Scherzando E Presto
Presto
Adagio
Menuetto
Finale: Allegro Di Molto - Adagio E Cantabile - Tempo Primo
Vivace
Menuetto
Adagio Cantabile
Finale: Presto

Amazon.com

Béla Drahos came out of nowhere to record an excellent series of the Beethoven symphonies for Naxos. He has done a few of Naxos's Haydn volumes, too. This latest disc includes three superb, little-known works of Haydn in sparkling versions that will certainly win friends for the music. Haydn's imagination and technique are obvious everywhere in these pieces, and the clarity and lift of the playing bring every moment to life. You can tell that each musician is enjoying the participation in these performances, and when there is a special bit of fun--such as the hurdy-gurdy episode in the Minuet of No. 67--it comes off superbly. With 76 minutes of music on the well-recorded disc, it would be a worthwhile acquisition at full price. --Leslie Gerber

Customer Reviews:

Exploring the Haydn Symphonies -- Nos. 67,68,and 69.......2004-10-19

Joseph Haydn (1732-1809) began to compose symphonies in his late 20s and continued with the last of his "London" symphonies in 1794-1795. Throughout this period, his symphonies exhibit both continuity and a slow process of growth. It is an extraordinary listening experience to follow Haydn from his earliest symphonic efforts through his final symphonies which are masterworks of the classical form.

The symphonies on this CD form part of a complete collection of the 104 symphonies on Naxos. The series offers an opportunity to explore the creative genius of a composer who once observed that because there were no models available to him, he "was compelled to become original".

This disk,consisting of symphonies 66,67, and 68, features the Nicholaus Esterhazy Sinfonia conducted by Bela Drahos. These works were composed in the mid-1770s. I found it worthwhile in listening to these works to contrast them with Haydn's passionate "storm and stress" symphonies of the late 1760's and to compare them with some of Haydn's mid-50 symphonies (symphonies 54,56,57 on another Naxos CD) with which they share much in common. But each of these symphonies is a work of its own and worth hearing in its own right.

The symphony no.66 in B-flat major is the most conventional of this set. It has, in common with the mid-50's symphonies, a skipping opening allegro beginning with a loud chord together with much use of the solo bassoon. The first movement, allegro con brio, consists of contrasting themes following the loud opening chord. Most of this movement is carried by the strings. The second movement, adagio, is in three parts. It opens quietly in the strings and leads to an extensive passage for solo violin. The middle section moves into the minor key and builds to an intense climax before thr return of the opening material. The theme of the minuet is stated in the strings with solos for bassoon and oboe in the trio. The finale, appropriately labled "scherzando e presto" is a rapid and lightly moving rondo with much use of counterpoint and an episode in the minor key.

Symphonies nos. 67 and 68 are much more original compositions. The first movement of the symphony no. 67 in F major is marked presto and features a soft opening theme followed by a much more dramatic section for strings backed by the horn. The movement maintains a distinctive rhythmic swing throughout. The adagio is a contrasting movement consisting of a smooth, lyrical theme. It features solos near the end for two violins, a short passage to be played with the wood of the violin bow, and two solemn notes in the horn to end the movement. The minuet also includes marked solo passages for the violin in the top of its register contrasting with a droned accompaniment for a second soloist. (In this section, the G string on the violin needs to be tuned down one step.) The finale is an extended and unusual movement marked "allego di molto-adagio e cantabile-tempo primo". After the opening statment by the orchestra, the movement turns suddenly into an adagio featuring a string trio. The slow movement builds in intensity until joined by the entire ensemble before the return of the opening material. There are two better-known finales of this type (in which a slow section is interjected in the middle) in Mozart's E-flat major piano concertos K. 271 and K. 482. This is the first instance of which I am aware of the use of this pattern in a symphony.

The final work on this CD, the symphony no. 68 in B-flat major also is full of inventiveness. The opening vivace is lively and is highlighted by a quick run up the scale in the strings. The movement makes extensive use of the winds and includes solo writing for the bassoon and the violin in the development section. The minuet is placed second in this symphony. It is short and light with a legato theme framing the solo violin in the trio. The minuet sets the stage for the extensive adagio cantabile which is the centerpiece of this symphony. This movement is almost as lengthy as the remainder of the symphony. It features a flowing, lyrical theme in the opening and conclusion with a contrasting middle section. The movement proceeds at a good tempo, doesn't take itself overly seriously, and has a lovely swing. The finale, presto, is full of good humor with a lively theme, solos for the bassoon and other winds, and passages for various solo instruments entering in turn at the conclusion.

This is an excellent CD of some lesser-known Haydn symphonies.

Good, but standard.......2004-01-29

Excellent overall playing, decent sound. My usual complaint - too slow in the three adagio movements. Adagio does not mean slow, it means relaxed or easeful, and indicates mood not speed. Played at the typical speeds - someone like the conductor Bruno Weil is an exception, who usually paces better, i.e. faster - the adagios are sluggish, the phrasing occasionally awkward, certain notes unduly stretched and pauses overlong and lacking tension. Too slow speeds in adagios undermines their sprightliness, which is a feature of Haydn's writing almost invariably missed by the sleepy brigade.

Great Music, Not Just A Way To Fill-In Your Haydn Collection.......2001-04-08

When I first got into classical music, purchasing all 104 symphonies by Haydn seemed like a monumental, if not impossible task. I simply couldn't afford something as grand as the Dorati Complete Haydn Symphonies Boxed Set, and besides I wasn't even sure if I'd like Haydn all that much. I played it safe and made my first four purchases the two Szell Sony Essential Classics discs collecting Symphonies Nos. 92-97 between them, and Bernstein Royal Editions of the Paris (82-87) and London (100-104) Symphonies. (I can't remember why I opted for these instead of the Davis Philips two-fers -- the performances are just as amazing, and they are probably cheaper when all is said and done.)

To say the least, these Szell and Bernstein performances were stunning, and I was definitely on my way to a love affair with Haydn. But as I searched out more single disc Haydn titles, I found it very difficult to fill in the gaps in my collection between Symphonies 80 and 104. I discovered a few quality recordings here and there that fit the bill -- a Furtwangler performance of Symphony No. 88 on DG Originals and a Klemperer recording of Symphony No. 98 on EMI -- but for the most part I came away empty-handed.

At this point, a friend suggested the Naxos label. I was naive then and I told my friend I wasn't interested in hearing Alfred Rumplestiltskin and the East Cowtown Nebraska orchestra perform the great works. He told me not to be such a snob, and assured me that the performances and recording quality were consistently excellent, and that symphonies like the Esterhazy and Cologne Chamber Orchestras, while not the Berlin Philharmonic, were certainly first class groups.

Tracks:

Symphony No. 1 In D Major - I. Presto
Symphony No. 1 In D Major - II. Andante
Symphony No. 1 In D Major - III. Finale: Presto
Symphony No. 2 In C Major - I. Allegro
Symphony No. 2 In C Major - II. Andante
Symphony No. 2 In C Major - III. Finale: Presto
Symphony No. 3 In G Major - I. Allegro
Symphony No. 3 In G Major - II. Andante Moderato
Symphony No. 3 In G Major - Menuet E Trio
Symphony No. 3 In G Major - Finale: Alla Breve
Symphony No. 4 In D Major - I. Presto
Symphony No. 4 In D Major - II. Andante
Symphony No. 4 In D Major - III. Finale: Tempo Di Menuetto
Symphony No. 5 In A Major - I. Adagio Ma Non Troppo
Symphony No. 5 In A Major - II. Allegro
Symphony No. 5 In A Major - III. Menuet E Trio
Symphony No. 5 In A Major - IV. Finale: Presto

Tracks:

Symphony No. 6 In D Major - 'Le Matin' - I. Adagio-Allegro
Symphony No. 6 In D Major - 'Le Matin' - II. Adagio-Andante
Symphony No. 6 In D Major - 'Le Matin' - III. Menuet E Trio
Symphony No. 6 In D Major - 'Le Matin' - IV. Finale: Allegro
Symphony No. 7 In C Major - 'Le Midi' - I. Adagio-Allegro
Symphony No. 7 In C Major - 'Le Midi' - II. Recitativo: Adagio
Symphony No. 7 In C Major - 'Le Midi' - III. Menuetto E Trio
Symphony No. 7 In C Major - 'Le Midi' - IV. Finale: Allegro
Symphony No. 8 In G Major - 'Le Soir' - I. Allegro Molto
Symphony No. 8 In G Major - 'Le Soir' - II. Andante
Symphony No. 8 In G Major - 'Le Soir' - III. Menuetto E Trio
Symphony No. 8 In G Major - 'Le Soir' - IV. 'La Tempesta': Presto

Tracks:

Symphony No. 9 In C Major - I. Allegro Molto
Symphony No. 9 In C Major - II. Andante
Symphony No. 9 In C Major - III. Finale: Menuetto-Allegretto
Symphony No. 10 In D Major - I. Allegro
Symphony No. 10 In D Major - II. Andante
Symphony No. 10 In D Major - III. Finale: Presto
Symphony No. 11 In E Flat Major - I. Adagio Cantabile
Symphony No. 11 In E Flat Major - II. Allegro
Symphony No. 11 In E Flat Major - III. Menuet E Trio
Symphony No. 11 In E Flat Major - IV. Finale: Presto
Symphony No. 12 In E Major - I. Allegro
Symphony No. 12 In E Major - II. Adagio
Symphony No. 12 In E Major - III. Finale: Presto

Tracks:

Symphony No. 13 In D Major - I. Allegro Molto
Symphony No. 13 In D Major - II. Adagio Cantabile
Symphony No. 13 In D Major - III. Menuet E Trio
Symphony No. 13 In D Major - IV. Finale: Allegro Molto
Symphony No. 14 In A Major - I. Allegro Molto
Symphony No. 14 In A Major - II. Andante
Symphony No. 14 In A Major - III. Menuetto E Trio: Allegretto
Symphony No. 14 In A Major - IV. Finale: Allegretto
Symphony No. 15 In D Major - I. Adagio-Presto-Adagio
Symphony No. 15 In D Major - II. Menuet E Trio
Symphony No. 15 In D Major - III. Andante
Symphony No. 15 In D Major - IV. Finale: Presto
Symphony No. 16 In B Flat Major - I. Allegro
Symphony No. 16 In B Flat Major - II. Andante Ma Non Troppo
Symphony No. 16 In B Flat Major - III. Finale: Presto

Tracks:

Symphony No. 17 In F Major - I. Allegro
Symphony No. 17 In F Major - II. Andante Ma Non Troppo
Symphony No. 17 In F Major - III. Finale: Allegro Molto
Symphony No. 18 In G Major - I. Andante Moderato
Symphony No. 18 In G Major - II. Allegro Molto
Symphony No. 18 In G Major - III. Tempo Di Menuet
Symphony No. 19 In D Major - I. Allegro Molto
Symphony No. 19 In D Major - II. Andante
Symphony No. 19 In D Major - III. Presto
Symphony No. 20 In C Major - I. Allegro Molto
Symphony No. 20 In C Major - II. Andante Cantabile
Symphony No. 20 In C Major - III. Menuetto E Trio
Symphony No. 20 In C Major - IV. Presto
Symphony No. 21 In A Major - I. Adagio
Symphony No. 21 In A Major - II. Presto
Symphony No. 21 In A Major - III. Menuetto E Trio
Symphony No. 21 In A Major - IV. Allegro Molto

Tracks:

Symphony No. 22 In E Flat Major - 'The Philosopher' - I. Adagio
Symphony No. 22 In E Flat Major - 'The Philosopher' - II. Presto
Symphony No. 22 In E Flat Major - 'The Philosopher' - III. Menuetto E Trio
Symphony No. 22 In E Flat Major - 'The Philosopher' - IV. Presto
Symphony No. 23 In G Major - I. Allegro
Symphony No. 23 In G Major - II. Andante
Symphony No. 23 In G Major - III. Menuetto E Trio
Symphony No. 23 In G Major - IV. Presto Assai
Symphony No. 24 In D Major - I. Allegro
Symphony No. 24 In D Major - II. Adagio
Symphony No. 24 In D Major - III. Menuetto E Trio
Symphony No. 24 In D Major - IV. Allegro
Symphony No. 25 In C Major - I. Adagio
Symphony No. 25 In C Major - II. Menuetto E Trio
Symphony No. 25 In C Major - III. Presto

Tracks:

Symphony No. 26 In D Minor - 'Lamentatione' - I. Allegro Assai Con Spirito
Symphony No. 26 In D Minor - 'Lamentatione' - II. Adagio
Symphony No. 26 In D Minor - 'Lamentatione' - III. Menuetto E Trio
Symphony No. 27 In G Major - I. Allegro Molto
Symphony No. 27 In G Major - II. Andante Siciliano
Symphony No. 27 In G Major - III. Presto
Symphony No. 28 In A Major - I. Allegro Di Molto
Symphony No. 28 In A Major - II. Poco Adagio
Symphony No. 28 In A Major - III. Menuetto E Trio: Allegro Molto
Symphony No. 28 In A Major - IV. Presto Assai
Symphony No. 29 In E Major - I. Allegro Di Molto
Symphony No. 29 In E Major - II. Andante
Symphony No. 29 In E Major - III. Menuetto E Trio: Allegretto
Symphony No. 29 In E Major - IV. Presto

Tracks:

Symphony No. 30 In C Major - 'Alleluja' - I. Allegro
Symphony No. 30 In C Major - 'Alleluja' - II. Andante
Symphony No. 30 In C Major - 'Alleluja' - III. Tempo Di Menuet, Piu Tosto Allegretto
Symphony No. 31 In D Major - 'Hornsignal' - I. Allegro
Symphony No. 31 In D Major - 'Hornsignal' - II. Adagio
Symphony No. 31 In D Major - 'Hornsignal' - III. Menuetto E Trio
Symphony No. 31 In D Major - 'Hornsignal' - IV. Moderato Molto
Symphony No. 32 In C Major - I. Allegro Molto
Symphony No. 32 In C Major - II. Menuetto E Trio
Symphony No. 32 In C Major - III. Adagio Ma Non Troppo
Symphony No. 32 In C Major - IV. Presto
Symphony No. 33 In C Major - I. Vivace
Symphony No. 33 In C Major - II. Andante
Symphony No. 33 In C Major - III. Menuetto E Trio
Symphony No. 33 In C Major - IV. Allegro

Tracks:

Symphony No. 34 In D Minor - I. Adagio
Symphony No. 34 In D Minor - II. Allegro
Symphony No. 34 In D Minor - III. Menuetto E Trio
Symphony No. 34 In D Minor - IV. Presto Assai
Symphony No. 35 In B Flat Major - I. Allegro Di Molto
Symphony No. 35 In B Flat Major - II. Andante
Symphony No. 35 In B Flat Major - III. Menuetto E Trio: Un Poco Allegretto
Symphony No. 35 In B Flat Major - IV. Presto
Symphony No. 36 In E Flat Major - I. Vivace
Symphony No. 36 In E Flat Major - II. Adagio
Symphony No. 36 In E Flat Major - III. Menuetto E Trio
Symphony No. 36 In E Flat Major - IV. Allegro-Presto
Symphony No. 37 In C Major - I. Presto
Symphony No. 37 In C Major - II. Menuet E Trio
Symphony No. 37 In C Major - III. Andante
Symphony No. 37 In C Major - IV. Presto

Tracks:

Symphony No. 38 In C Major - 'Echo' - I. Allegro Di Molto
Symphony No. 38 In C Major - 'Echo' - II. Andante Molto
Symphony No. 38 In C Major - 'Echo' - III. Menuet E Trio: Allegro
Symphony No. 38 In C Major - 'Echo' - IV. Finale: Allegro Di Molto
Symphony No. 39 In G Minor - I. Allegro Assai
Symphony No. 39 In G Minor - II. Andante
Symphony No. 39 In G Minor - III. Menuet E Trio
Symphony No. 39 In G Minor - IV. Finale
Symphony No. 40 In F Major - I. Allegro
Symphony No. 40 In F Major - II. Andante Piu Tosto Allegretto
Symphony No. 40 In F Major - III. Menuet E Trio
Symphony No. 40 In F Major - IV. Finale: Fuga
Symphony No. 41 In C Major - I. Allegro Con Spirito
Symphony No. 41 In C Major - II. Un Poco Andante
Symphony No. 41 In C Major - III. Menuet E Trio
Symphony No. 41 In C Major - IV. Finale: Presto

Tracks:

Symphony No. 42 In D Major - I. Moderato E Maestoso
Symphony No. 42 In D Major - II. Andantino E Cantabile
Symphony No. 42 In D Major - III. Menuet E Trio: Allegretto
Symphony No. 42 In D Major - IV. Finale: Scherzando E Presto
Symphony No. 43 In E Flat Major - 'Merkur' - I. Allegro
Symphony No. 43 In E Flat Major - 'Merkur' - II. Adagio
Symphony No. 43 In E Flat Major - 'Merkur' - III. Menuetto E Trio
Symphony No. 43 In E Flat Major - 'Merkur' - IV. Finale: Allegro
Symphony No. 44 In E Minor - 'Trauer' ('Mourning') - I. Allegro Con Brio
Symphony No. 44 In E Minor - 'Trauer' ('Mourning') - II. Menuetto E Trio: Allegretto Canone In...
Symphony No. 44 In E Minor - 'Trauer' ('Mourning') - III. Adagio
Symphony No. 44 In E Minor - 'Trauer' ('Mourning') - IV. Presto

Tracks:

Symphony No. 45 In F Sharp Minor - 'Abschied' ('Farewell') - I. Allegro Assai
Symphony No. 45 In F Sharp Minor - 'Abschied' ('Farewell') - II. Adagio
Symphony No. 45 In F Sharp Minor - 'Abschied' ('Farewell') - III. Menuet E Trio: Allegretto
Symphony No. 45 In F Sharp Minor - 'Abschied' ('Farewell') - IV. Finale: Presto E Adagio
Symphony No. 46 In B Major - I. Vivace
Symphony No. 46 In B Major - II. Poco Adagio
Symphony No. 46 In B Major - III. Menuet E Trio: Allegretto
Symphony No. 46 In B Major - IV. Finale: Presto E Scherzando
Symphony No. 47 In G Major - I. Allegro
Symphony No. 47 In G Major - II. Un Poco Adagio, Cantabile
Symphony No. 47 In G Major - III. Menuet E Trio Al Roverso
Symphony No. 47 In G Major - IV. Finale: Presto Assai

Tracks:

Symphony No. 48 In C Major - 'Maria Theresia' - I. Allegro
Symphony No. 48 In C Major - 'Maria Theresia' - II. Adagio
Symphony No. 48 In C Major - 'Maria Theresia' - III. Menuet E Trio
Symphony No. 48 In C Major - 'Maria Theresia' - IV. Finale: Allegro
Symphony No. 49 In F Minor - 'La Passione' - I. Adagio
Symphony No. 49 In F Minor - 'La Passione' - II. Allegro Di Molto
Symphony No. 49 In F Minor - 'La Passione' - III. Menuet E Trio
Symphony No. 49 In F Minor - 'La Passione' - IV. Finale: Presto
Symphony No. 50 In C Major - I. Adagio E Maestoso
Symphony No. 50 In C Major - II. Andante Moderato
Symphony No. 50 In C Major - III. Menuet E Trio
Symphony No. 50 In C Major - IV. Finale: Presto

Tracks:

Symphony No. 51 In B Flat Major - I. Vivace
Symphony No. 51 In B Flat Major - II. Adagio
Symphony No. 51 In B Flat Major - III. Menuet, Trio I, Trio II
Symphony No. 51 In B Flat Major - IV. Finale: Allegro
Symphony No. 52 In C Minor - I. Allegro Assai Con Brio
Symphony No. 52 In C Minor - II. Andante
Symphony No. 52 In C Minor - III. Menuetto E Trio: Allegretto
Symphony No. 52 In C Minor - IV. Finale: Presto
Symphony No. 53 In D Major - 'L'Imperiale' - I. Largo Maestoso-Vivace
Symphony No. 53 In D Major - 'L'Imperiale' - II. Andante
Symphony No. 53 In D Major - 'L'Imperiale' - III. Menuetto E Trio
Symphony No. 53 In D Major - 'L'Imperiale' - IV. Finale: Presto

Tracks:

Symphony No. 54 In G Major - I. Adagio Maestoso-Presto
Symphony No. 54 In G Major - II. Adagio Assai
Symphony No. 54 In G Major - III. Menuet E Trio: Allegretto
Symphony No. 54 In G Major - IV. Finale: Presto
Symphony No. 55 In E Flat Major - 'Der Schulmeister' ('The Schoolmaster') - I. Allegro Di Molto
Symphony No. 55 In E Flat Major - 'Der Schulmeister' ('The Schoolmaster') - II. Adagio, Ma...
Symphony No. 55 In E Flat Major - 'Der Schulmeister' ('The Schoolmaster') - III. Menuetto E Trio
Symphony No. 55 In E Flat Major - 'Der Schulmeister' ('The Schoolmaster') - IV. Finale: Presto
Symphony No. 56 In C Major - I. Allegro Di Molto
Symphony No. 56 In C Major - II. Adagio
Symphony No. 56 In C Major - III. Menuet E Trio
Symphony No. 56 In C Major - IV. Finale: Prestissimo

Tracks:

Symphony No. 57 In D Major - I. Adagio-[Allegro]
Symphony No. 57 In D Major - II. Adagio
Symphony No. 57 In D Major - III. Menuet E Trio: Allegretto
Symphony No. 57 In D Major - IV. Finale: Prestissimo
Symphony No. 58 In F Major - I. Allegro
Symphony No. 58 In F Major - II. Andante
Symphony No. 58 In F Major - III. Menuet Alla Zoppa E Trio: Un Poco Allegretto
Symphony No. 58 In F Major - IV. Finale: Presto
Symphony No. 59 In A Major - 'Feuersymphonie' ('Fire') - I. Presto
Symphony No. 59 In A Major - 'Feuersymphonie' ('Fire') - II. Andante O Piu Tosto Allegretto
Symphony No. 59 In A Major - 'Feuersymphonie' ('Fire') - III. Menuet E Trio
Symphony No. 59 In A Major - 'Feuersymphonie' ('Fire') - IV. Allegro Assai

Tracks:

Symphony No. 60 In C Major - 'Il Distratto' - I. Adagio
Symphony No. 60 In C Major - 'Il Distratto' - II. Andante
Symphony No. 60 In C Major - 'Il Distratto' - III. Menuetto E Trio
Symphony No. 60 In C Major - 'Il Distratto' - IV. Presto
Symphony No. 60 In C Major - 'Il Distratto' - V. Adagio (Di Lamentatione)
Symphony No. 60 In C Major - 'Il Distratto' - VI. Finale: Prestissimo
Symphony No. 61 In D Major - I. Vivace
Symphony No. 61 In D Major - II. Adagio
Symphony No. 61 In D Major - III. Menuet E Trio: Allegretto
Symphony No. 61 In D Major - IV. Prestissimo
Symphony No. 62 In D Major - I. Allegro
Symphony No. 62 In D Major - II. Allegretto
Symphony No. 62 In D Major - III. Menuet E Trio: Allegretto
Symphony No. 62 In D Major - IV. Finale: Allegro

Tracks:

Symphony No. 63 In C Major - 'La Roxelane' - I. Allegro
Symphony No. 63 In C Major - 'La Roxelane' - II. Allegretto O Piu Tosto Allegro
Symphony No. 63 In C Major - 'La Roxelane' - III. Menuet E Trio
Symphony No. 63 In C Major - 'La Roxelane' - IV. Finale: Presto
Symphony No. 64 In A Major - I. Allegro Con Spirito
Symphony No. 64 In A Major - II. Largo
Symphony No. 64 In A Major - III. Menuet E Trio: Allegretto
Symphony No. 64 In A Major - IV. Finale: Presto
Symphony No. 65 In A Major - I. Vivace E Con Spirito
Symphony No. 65 In A Major - II. Andante
Symphony No. 65 In A Major - III. Menuetto E Trio
Symphony No. 65 In A Major - IV. Finale: Presto

Tracks:

Symphony No. 66 In B Flat Major - I. Allegro Con Brio
Symphony No. 66 In B Flat Major - II. Adagio
Symphony No. 66 In B Flat Major - III. Menuetto E Trio
Symphony No. 66 In B Flat Major - IV. Finale: Scherzando E Presto
Symphony No. 67 In F Major - I. Presto
Symphony No. 67 In F Major - II. Adagio
Symphony No. 67 In F Major - III. Menuetto E Trio
Symphony No. 67 In F Major - IV. Finale: Allegro Di Molto-Adagio E Cantabile
Symphony No. 68 In B Flat Major - I. Vivace
Symphony No. 68 In B Flat Major - II. Menuetto E Trio
Symphony No. 68 In B Flat Major - III. Adagio Cantabile
Symphony No. 68 In B Flat Major - IV. Finale: Presto

Tracks:

Symphony No. 69 In C Major - 'Laudon' - I. Vivace
Symphony No. 69 In C Major - 'Laudon' - II. Un Poco Adagio Piu Tosto Andante
Symphony No. 69 In C Major - 'Laudon' - III. Menuetto E Trio
Symphony No. 69 In C Major - 'Laudon' - IV. Finale: Presto
Symphony No. 70 In D Major - I. Vivace Con Brio
Symphony No. 70 In D Major - II. Specie D'un Canone In Contrapunto Doppio: Andante
Symphony No. 70 In D Major - III. Menuet E Trio: Allegretto
Symphony No. 70 In D Major - IV. Finale: Allegro Con Brio
Symphony No. 71 In B Flat Major - I. Allegro
Symphony No. 71 In B Flat Major - II. Adagio
Symphony No. 71 In B Flat Major - III. Menuet E Trio
Symphony No. 71 In B Flat Major - IV. Finale: Vivace

Tracks:

Symphony No. 72 In D Major - I. Allegro
Symphony No. 72 In D Major - II. Andante
Symphony No. 72 In D Major - III. Menuetto E Trio
Symphony No. 72 In D Major - IV. Thema Con Variazioni: Andante-Presto
Symphony No. 73 In D Major - 'La Chasse' - I. Adagio-Allegro
Symphony No. 73 In D Major - 'La Chasse' - II. Andante
Symphony No. 73 In D Major - 'La Chasse' - III. Menuetto E Trio: Allegretto
Symphony No. 73 In D Major - 'La Chasse' - IV. La Chasse: Presto
Symphony No. 74 In E Flat Major - I. Vivace Assai
Symphony No. 74 In E Flat Major - II. Adagio Cantabile
Symphony No. 74 In E Flat Major - III. Menuetto E Trio: Allegretto
Symphony No. 74 In E Flat Major - IV. Finale: Allegro Assai

Tracks:

Symphony No. 75 In D Major - I. Grave-Presto
Symphony No. 75 In D Major - II. Poco Adagio
Symphony No. 75 In D Major - III. Menuetto E Trio: Allegretto
Symphony No. 75 In D Major - IV. Finale: Vivace
Symphony No. 76 In E Flat Major - I. Allegro
Symphony No. 76 In E Flat Major - II. Adagio, Ma Non Troppo
Symphony No. 76 In E Flat Major - III. Menuetto E Trio: Allegretto
Symphony No. 76 In E Flat Major - IV. Finale: Vivace
Symphony No. 77 In B Flat Major - I. Vivace
Symphony No. 77 In B Flat Major - II. Andante Sostenuto
Symphony No. 77 In B Flat Major - III. Menuetto E Trio: Allegro
Symphony No. 77 In B Flat Major - IV. Finale: Allegro Spiritoso

Tracks:

Symphony No. 78 In C Minor - I. Vivace
Symphony No. 78 In C Minor - II. Adagio
Symphony No. 78 In C Minor - III. Menuetto E Trio: Allegretto
Symphony No. 78 In C Minor - IV. Finale: Presto
Symphony No. 79 In F Major - I. Allegro Con Spirito
Symphony No. 79 In F Major - II. Adagio Cantabile
Symphony No. 79 In F Major - III. Menuetto E Trio: Allegretto
Symphony No. 79 In F Major - IV. Finale: Vivace
Symphony No. 80 In D Minor - I. Allegro Spiritoso
Symphony No. 80 In D Minor - II. Adagio
Symphony No. 80 In D Minor - III. Menuetto E Trio
Symphony No. 80 In D Minor - IV. Finale: Presto

Tracks:

Symphony No. 81 In G Major - I. Vivace
Symphony No. 81 In G Major - II. Andante
Symphony No. 81 In G Major - III. Menuetto E Trio: Allegretto
Symphony No. 81 In G Major - IV. Finale: Allegro, Ma Non Troppo
Symphony No. 82 In C Major - 'L'Ours' ('The Bear') - I. Vivace Assai
Symphony No. 82 In C Major - 'L'Ours' ('The Bear') - II. Allegretto
Symphony No. 82 In C Major - 'L'Ours' ('The Bear') - III. Menuetto E Trio
Symphony No. 82 In C Major - 'L'Ours' ('The Bear') - IV. Finale: Vivace
Symphony No. 83 In G Minor - 'La Poule' ('The Hen') - I. Allegro Spiritoso
Symphony No. 83 In G Minor - 'La Poule' ('The Hen') - II. Andante
Symphony No. 83 In G Minor - 'La Poule' ('The Hen') - III. Menuetto E Trio: Allegretto
Symphony No. 83 In G Minor - 'La Poule' ('The Hen') - IV. Finale: Vivace

Tracks:

Symphony No. 84 In E Flat Major - I. Largo-Allegro
Symphony No. 84 In E Flat Major - II. Andante
Symphony No. 84 In E Flat Major - III. Menuetto E Trio: Allegretto
Symphony No. 84 In E Flat Major - IV. Finale: Vivace
Symphony No. 85 In B Flat Major - 'La Reine' - I. Adagio-Vivace
Symphony No. 85 In B Flat Major - 'La Reine' - II. Romance: Allegretto
Symphony No. 85 In B Flat Major - 'La Reine' - III. Menuetto E Trio: Allegretto
Symphony No. 85 In B Flat Major - 'La Reine' - IV. Finale: Presto
Symphony No. 86 In D Major - I. Adagio-Allegro Spiritoso
Symphony No. 86 In D Major - II. Capriccio: Largo
Symphony No. 86 In D Major - III. Menuet E Trio: Allegretto
Symphony No. 86 In D Major - IV. Finale: Allegro Con Spirito

Tracks:

Symphony No. 87 In A Major - I. Vivace
Symphony No. 87 In A Major - II. Adagio
Symphony No. 87 In A Major - III. Menuet E Trio
Symphony No. 87 In A Major - IV. Finale: Vivace
Symphony No. 88 In G Major - I. Adagio-Allegro
Symphony No. 88 In G Major - II. Largo
Symphony No. 88 In G Major - III. Menuetto E Trio: Allegretto
Symphony No. 88 In G Major - IV. Finale: Allegro Con Spirito
Symphony No. 89 In F Major - I. Vivace
Symphony No. 89 In F Major - II. Andante Con Moto
Symphony No. 89 In F Major - III. Menuet E Trio: Allegretto
Symphony No. 89 In F Major - IV. Finale: Vivace Assai

Tracks:

Symphony No. 90 In C Major - I. Adagio-Allegro Assai
Symphony No. 90 In C Major - II. Andante
Symphony No. 90 In C Major - III. Menuet E Trio
Symphony No. 90 In C Major - IV. Finale: Allegro Assai
Symphony No. 91 In E Flat Major - I. Largo-Allegro Assai
Symphony No. 91 In E Flat Major - II. Andante
Symphony No. 91 In E Flat Major - III. Menuet E Trio: Un Poco Allegretto
Symphony No. 91 In E Flat Major - IV. Finale: Vivace
Symphony No. 92 In G Major - 'Oxford' - I. Adagio-Allegro Spiritoso
Symphony No. 92 In G Major - 'Oxford' - II. Adagio
Symphony No. 92 In G Major - 'Oxford' - III. Menuetto E Trio: Allegretto
Symphony No. 92 In G Major - 'Oxford' - IV. Finale: Presto

Tracks:

Symphony No. 93 In D Major - I. Adagio-Allegro Assai
Symphony No. 93 In D Major - II. Largo Cantabile
Symphony No. 93 In D Major - III. Menuetto E Trio: Allegro
Symphony No. 93 In D Major - IV. Finale: Presto Ma Non Troppo
Symphony No. 94 In G Major - 'Surprise' ('Mit Dem Paukenschlag') - I. Adagio-Vivace Assai
Symphony No. 94 In G Major - 'Surprise' ('Mit Dem Paukenschlag') - II. Andante
Symphony No. 94 In G Major - 'Surprise' ('Mit Dem Paukenschlag') - III. Menuet E Trio: Allegro...
Symphony No. 94 In G Major - 'Surprise' ('Mit Dem Paukenschlag') - IV. Finale: Allegro Di Molto
Symphony No. 95 In C Minor - I. Allegro Moderato
Symphony No. 95 In C Minor - II. Andante Cantabile
Symphony No. 95 In C Minor - III. Menuet E Trio
Symphony No. 95 In C Minor - IV. Finale: Vivace

Tracks:

Symphony No. 96 In D Major - 'Miracle' - I. Adagio-Allegro
Symphony No. 96 In D Major - 'Miracle' - II. Andante
Symphony No. 96 In D Major - 'Miracle' - III. Menuetto E Trio: Allegretto
Symphony No. 96 In D Major - 'Miracle' - IV. Finale: Vivace
Symphony No. 97 In C Major - I. Adagio-Vivace
Symphony No. 97 In C Major - II. Adagio Ma Non Troppo
Symphony No. 97 In C Major - III. Menuetto E Trio: Allegretto
Symphony No. 97 In C Major - IV. Finale: Presto Assai
Symphony No. 98 In B Flat Major - I. Adagio-Allegro
Symphony No. 98 In B Flat Major - II. Adagio
Symphony No. 98 In B Flat Major - III. Menuetto E Trio: Allegro
Symphony No. 98 In B Flat Major - IV. Finale: Presto

Tracks:

Symphony No. 99 In E Flat Major - I. Adagio-Vivace Assai
Symphony No. 99 In E Flat Major - II. Adagio
Symphony No. 99 In E Flat Major - III. Menuetto E Trio: Allegretto
Symphony No. 99 In E Flat Major - IV. Finale: Vivace
Symphony No. 100 In G Major - 'Military' - I. Adagio-Allegro
Symphony No. 100 In G Major - 'Military' - II. Allegretto
Symphony No. 100 In G Major - 'Military' - III. Menuetto E Trio: Moderato
Symphony No. 100 In G Major - 'Military' - IV. Finale: Presto
Sinfonia Concertante In B Flat Major - I. Allegro
Sinfonia Concertante In B Flat Major - II. Andante
Sinfonia Concertante In B Flat Major - III. Allegro Con Spirito

Tracks:

Symphony No. 101 In D Major - 'The Clock' ('L'Horloge') - I. Adagio-Presto
Symphony No. 101 In D Major - 'The Clock' ('L'Horloge') - II. Andante
Symphony No. 101 In D Major - 'The Clock' ('L'Horloge') - III. Menuetto E Trio: Allegretto
Symphony No. 101 In D Major - 'The Clock' ('L'Horloge') - IV. Finale: Vivace
Symphony No. 102 In B Flat Major - I. Largo-Vivace
Symphony No. 102 In B Flat Major - II. Adagio
Symphony No. 102 In B Flat Major - III. Menuetto E Trio: Allegro
Symphony No. 102 In B Flat Major - IV. Finale: Presto
Symphony 'A' In B Flat Major - I. Allegro
Symphony 'A' In B Flat Major - II. Andante
Symphony 'A' In B Flat Major - III. Allegro Molto

Tracks:

Symphony No. 103 In E Flat Major - 'Drum-roll' - I. Adagio-Allegro Con Spirito
Symphony No. 103 In E Flat Major - 'Drum-roll' - II. Andante, Piu Tosto Allegretto
Symphony No. 103 In E Flat Major - 'Drum-roll' - III. Menuetto E Trio
Symphony No. 103 In E Flat Major - 'Drum-roll' - IV. Finale: Allegro Con Spirito
Symphony No. 104 In D Major - 'London' - I. Adagio-Allegro
Symphony No. 104 In D Major - 'London' - II. Andante
Symphony No. 104 In D Major - 'London' - III. Menuetto E Trio: Allegro
Symphony No. 104 In D Major - 'London' - IV. Finale: Spiritoso
Symphony 'B' In B Flat Major - I. Allegro Molto
Symphony 'B' In B Flat Major - II. Menuetto E Trio: Allegretto
Symphony 'B' In B Flat Major - III. Andante
Symphony 'B' In B Flat Major - IV. Finale: Presto

Tracks:

Symphony No. 22 In E Flat Major - 'The Philosopher' (2nd Version) - I. Presto
Symphony No. 22 In E Flat Major - 'The Philosopher' (2nd Version) - II. Andante Grazioso
Symphony No. 22 In E Flat Major - 'The Philosopher' (2nd Version) - III. Finale: Presto
Symphony No. 53 In D Major - 'L'Imperiale' - Alternative Ending A - Finale. Capriccio: Moderato
Symphony No. 53 In D Major - 'L'Imperiale' - Alternative Ending C - Presto
Symphony No. 53 In D Major - 'L'Imperiale' - Alternative Ending D - 'Overture In D': Presto
Symphony No. 63 In C Major - 'La Roxelane' (1st Version) - I. Allegro
Symphony No. 63 In C Major - 'La Roxelane' (1st Version) - II. Allegretto 'La Roxelane'
Symphony No. 63 In C Major - 'La Roxelane' (1st Version) - III. Menuet E Trio: Allegretto
Symphony No. 63 In C Major - 'La Roxelane' (1st Version) - IV. Finale: Prestissimo
Symphony No. 103 In E Flat Major - 'Drum-roll' - Alternative Ending - Finale: Allegro Con Spirito

Amazon.com

Another monument in the history of recording, this is the only set of Haydn symphonies that ever reached completion, and the performances are generally so good as to bear comparison with many of the best individual performances. The music itself is astounding--107 symphonies, all of them good, many of them shattering masterpieces. Haydn invented the Classical style, which, along with the contributions from his friend Mozart and his student Beethoven, became the standard by which all future music was measured. At a budget price, owning this set is like being able to have your own authentic copy of the "Mona Lisa" for a couple hundred dollars. Awesome! --David Hurwitz

Customer Reviews:

A superb milestone.......2007-05-01

Antal Dorati's pioneering, complete cycle of Haydn's symphonies is a milestone in recording history. Here it is incarnated on 33 CDs. What you get are outstanding, superb performances. The orchestra - Hungarica Philharmonia - is just wonderful, and the interpretations are remarkable in their attention to detail and structure. In addition, the Decca analogue sound has never been better than here. The booklet is also excellent.

Dorati's pioneering efforts included also the Haydn operas, which recently have been collected and released in two boxes from Philips, and the 24 Minuets (Decca).

What about the competition, then? Adam Fischer's Haydn project on Nimbus offers also a complete cycle, now on Brilliant Classics at a bargain price for a very big box with 33 CDs and a brief booklet. Well, for one thing, Dorati's set is the classic cycle. Further, Dorati's readings are less extravagant than Fischer's - and in my view preferable. The sound is also better in the earlier Dorati set: a warm analogue sound in contrast to Fischer's chilly, all-digital sound, which also is very uneven. But Fischer's Haydn is less expensive: you can get his cycle for less than $100 from second-hand dealers. Despite that, Dorati's cycle should be your first choice. Moreover, if shelf space is an issue, the Dorati box is one inch slimmer and a half inch less tall.

Furthermore, there are selections of symphonies from Jochum (DG) and Scherchen (DG), of which I hold the latter in higher esteem due to its idiosyncrasy. In retrospect, however, Dorati's complete cycle has a unique classic status and is as such unchallenged. Thus I warmly recommend it as a part of the foundation of your collection in addition to Beethoven, Schubert, Schumann, Brahms, Mahler, and Mozart symphony cycles, because this is delightful music that will last for a lifetime on a desert island.

[Note: this box is available brand new at amazon.co.uk, for £98.87.]

For the sheer pleasure of them all...........2006-11-11

In the mid seventies, my father purchased all of what had been released of this cycle on vinyl LP. As vinyl goes, the London discs were first rate, and a prized possession.

I lost the vinyl collection during a move in the mid 80's. It was an emotional impact; I had cherished them as a child, and as a gift, irreplaceable.

This release is true to my memory, and now I have the entire cycle.

I've performed many of these in various orchestras and loved them all.

There's a fresh energy to the performances, and an elegance to the collection quite rare and delightful.

As a set, it's actually quite affordable considering it's under $6 per disc, or under $2 per symphony.

Antal Dorati's Claim To Fame.......2005-10-14

If it wasn't for this massive recording project, Hungarian-born conductor Antal Dorati would not have been acknowledged as a first-classconductor at a time when such giants as Leopold Stokowski, Herbert Von Karajan, George Solti and Leonard Bernstein were still conducting. Dorati is an exemplary exponent of classical music, which is also to say Classical Era music (1750-1800). Nevertheless, even if Dorati has a superb touch for this kind of repertoire, he is equally as brilliant in 20th century music and Romantic Era music, as his Tchaikovsky symphonies and ballets have proven. At an expensive price, this recording is still worth it. It's a legend in recorded history of classical music. No other conductor dared to take on such a monumental project as to record all 100 and plus symphonies of Franz Joseph Haydn, the composer who by definition began the movement of Classical Era music. It was Mozart, who was his younger friend, that is better known today for this kind of music and moreover, musicologists believe he refined and perfected the style. But don't underestimate Papa Haydn. His music is beautiful, bursting with energy and lightness, elegance, warmth and melodic harmony that is so refreshing to hear especially in our own time which is full of stress.

Haydn's symphonies are not all similar sounding. Each symphony was unique, like the hand prints on people. Yes, at times they do tend to sound the same, possibly because so many of them were in the key of D. Nevertheless, they are music of individual merit. As his symphonies approached its later years and maturation, Haydn employed slights of ear and orchestral innovations that were considered new and bold in his time. The "surprise" in his "Surprise Symphony" is a thunderous "bang" in fortissimo by the orchestra after a melody that is rather bland and sleepy (which to me sounds like "Mary Had A Little Lamb"). The "Clock" Symphony is measured in a kind of "tick-tock" beat and is very very elegant and memorable, as it conjures up the image of a Rococco clock or a clock museum. The Paris Symphonies are an Austrian-German man's "trip" to Paris and his interpretation of French music. It sounds nothing at all like French music at the time although at times it nearly slips into the slow grandeur of the music of Baroque master Jean Baptiste Lully. The London Symphonies are among his best, with a kind of majesty and pomp typically associated with English royalty. If you listen carefully it's in the music. A similar thing occurs in the music to the "Oxford" Symphony. Haydn had visited Oxford to teach music and was awarded a doctorate. He composed music for that special event and the music is brooding, intellectual and somehow very very English.

Antal Dorati and his formidable Hungarica Philharmonica is at their very best in this set. The sound is crisp, gleaming and unbeatable. Even if you get the individualized sets of these symphonies, you will be treating yourself to some top-notch classical music. A must have for fans of Antal Dorati.

A major milestone in recorded music, stunning achievement.......2005-03-29

This complete cycle of the Symphonies of F.J. Haydn heralded a new era in recorded music. Everything about the project was first rate. The sound was among Decca's best. The playing of the little known Philharmonia Hungarica was close to perfect. Dorati's interpretations never disappointed. To top it off, Decca offered the cycle at budget prices and threw in unprecedented notes from H.C. Robbins Landon.

Many would comment "once you've heard one, you've heard them all" when asked about Haydn's vast symphonic output. They could not be more wrong. There isn't a dull symphony or poor performance in the lot. Try such unknowns as #26, or #33, or #51 and #52, to name a few of my lesser known favorites.

Those familiar with Haydn's more well known symphonies, such as the London Symphonies (93-104) were even astonished to find Dorati's performances giving more formidable orchestras and conductors a run for their money.

So what can be said of the set 30 years later?

Everything said earlier still stands, including the original liner notes. Only Graham Johnson's scrupulous notes with his various Hyperion lieder sets surpass Landon's astounding commentary. The digital transfers are from the late 80s, so they are not the best, but still quite serviceable. And the price is still quite reasonable.

Beware, though, that these are not period instruments. Dorati does use "period forces" as much as possible, meaning the number of instruments closely matches what would have been used originally.

So why do I say this set "heralded a new era in recorded music"? Because after the resounding success it enjoyed, many "complete" works projects of similar or greater magnitude got their chance. I doubt we would have any where near the volumes of "complete sets" we now enjoy had it not been for Dorati and Decca's Haydn cycle.

In short, a fabulous set that I would never part with.

Dorati blazed the trail for Haydn interpreters.......2004-11-12

I've owned this complete set of Haydn symphonies for at least a decade or more. While I enjoy period instrument sound and performance practice, you cannot get a complete set on period instruments (I was hoping Hogwood would finish his cycle but I understand it wasn't to be). In all honesty, I think the best period instrument interpretations outdo the modern instrument recordings in sheer energy amd agility, but in respect of modern instruments, Dorati, the pioneer, does an extraordinary job of bringing out the essential flavor and energy that was Haydn's symphonies. I don't like mixing and matching various orchestras and conductors, so buying this 32 CD set gets you all 104+ symphonies in one tidy package. The sound quality is very good considering the times, with a very forward midrange.