Haydn: Symphonies
Wiener Philharmoniker, Leonard Bernstein
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,...
Haydn: Symphonies
Wiener Philharmoniker, Leonard Bernstein
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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,...
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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.
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Awards and 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.
