Search - Franz Joseph Haydn, Antal Dorati, Philharmonia Hungarica :: Haydn: London, Surprise & Military Symphonies

Haydn and Dorati - A Legendary Combination

Michael B. Richman | Portland, Maine USA | 06/23/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"One of the great feats in all recorded music is Antal Dorati's complete set of Haydn's Symphonies with the Philharmonia Hungarica made during the 1970s, and currently available as a 33-CD set. But if you are like me and can't quite bring yourself to spend that kind of money on a box set (one of these days though!), why not settle on this Penguin Classics title in the meantime. This is the only Haydn-Dorati Symphony performance currently available as a single disc domestically, though the "Paris Symphonies" are available as a Double-Decca. And if you could care less about Dorati and the legendary value of these recordings, and are just looking for a good Haydn CD, then this is for you too. The "Surprise," "Military" and "London" are arguably the most famous (and best) of all 104 numbered Haydn Symphonies. These performances are equal to or exceed other performances I own, including those by Bernstein, Davis and Jochum among others. In all, this is a great title to buy, or at the very least, to keep a space warm for that box set!"

You cannot go wrong with Dorati

Prescott Cunningham Moore | 12/23/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Antal Dorati's legendary traversal of the Haydn symphonies was for many years the only complete set (by one conductor and orchestra) of the symphonies. Today, although there are some other complete sets as well as many great period performances, Dorati's cycle still reigns supreme. Dorati manages to make these works still sound fresh and vibrate after two hundred years. There is a level of spontaneity, as well as an ever obvious sense of joy that make the Dorati traversal the best. It may seem like hyperbole, but Dorati is as close as you will get to "perfect" when it comes to Haydn.



In this CD, three of Haydn's most popular symphonies are glowing showcased. Although these performances were recorded in the 70s, the sound is crystal clear. I strongly suggest buying this CD not only for the fantastic music but also for the chance to become acquainted with Dorati. Soon you will find yourself purchasing the complete 33 disc set."