Haydn: Symphonies 26, 52, 53, 82-92 – 5 CD Set (Virgin Classics)

Product Information

• Title: Haydn: Symphonies 26, 52, 53, 82-92
• Format: 5 Compact Discs
• Performer(s):Composer: Franz Joseph Haydn (1732–1809)
  • Sigiswald Kuijken, Conductor
  • La Petite Bande (CDs 1, 4 & 5)
  • Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment (CDs 2 & 3)
• Label: Virgin Classics / EMI Records Ltd
• Release Period: 1988–1992; Compilation issued in 2002
• UPC: 724356204126
• Genre: Classical – Symphonic Music
• Style: Classical Period, Innovative Sonata Form, Inspirational Symphonic Writing

Overview

Experience the timeless genius of Franz Joseph Haydn with this exquisite 5 CD compilation of his symphonies—numbers 26, 52, 53, and 82 through 92. Under the insightful baton of Sigiswald Kuijken, this set showcases two of the world’s most admired period ensembles, La Petite Bande and the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment. Spanning masterpieces from the somber “Lamentatione” Symphony No.26 in D minor to the jubilant “Oxford” Symphony No.92 in G major, this recording illuminates Haydn’s pivotal role in elevating the symphonic form, blending innovation with classical refinement.

Each disc in the set is meticulously mastered and features the following contributions:

• CD 1 (62:26): Symphony No.26 ("Lamentatione"), setting an emotional tone and a remarkable insight into Haydn’s early style.
• CD 2 (78:14) & CD 3 (78:32): Primarily performed by the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment, these discs include symphonies that display the elegant clarity and dynamic contrasts characteristic of Haydn’s middle period.
• CD 4 (71:27) & CD 5 (58:07): With La Petite Bande leading the performance, these discs feature later and more virtuosic symphonies, including the celebrated “L'Impériale” (No.53) and the sparkling “Oxford” (No.92).

This collection is an essential acquisition for classical music aficionados and collectors keen to explore Haydn’s legacy—the “father” of the symphony and string quartet—whose work laid the foundation for generations of composers.

Product Features

Musical Excellence

• Diverse Symphonic Repertoire:

  • Symphony No.26 ("Lamentatione") in D Minor: A profound work marked by its emotional depth.
  • Symphony No.52 in C Minor & Symphony No.53 ("L'Impériale") in D Major: Showcasing dramatic contrasts and elegant orchestration.
  • Symphonies No.82 ("L'Ours"), No.83 ("La Poule"), No.84 in E-flat Major, No.85 ("La Reine") in B-flat Major, No.86 in D Major, No.87 in A Major, No.88 in G Major, No.89 in F Major, No.90 in C Major, No.91 in E-flat Major, and No.92 ("Oxford") in G Major: Each piece reveals Haydn’s inventive spirit, mastery in sonata form, and ability to balance humor, innovation, and noble lyricism.

• Conducted by Sigiswald Kuijken:

  • Kuijken’s historically informed tempo and phrasing bring out the subtle nuances of Haydn’s scores.

• Period Ensembles:

  • La Petite Bande and the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment specialize in authentic performance practice, delivering clear, transparent, and spirited interpretations of Haydn’s works.

Technical and Production Highlights

• Meticulous Mastering:

  • The recordings have been carefully remastered to preserve every dynamic detail and textual clarity, providing an exceptional listening experience.

• Detailed Track Listings and Accurate Timings:

  • With total playing times listed per disc, listeners can explore the breadth of Haydn’s symphonic innovation in a structured and organized fashion.

• Packaging and Artwork:

  • The CD set is presented in premium packaging with detailed album notes, giving background information on each symphony and the historical context of Haydn’s work.

• Versatile Listening:

  • Suitable for both casual listening and in-depth study, these recordings stand as a benchmark for performance practice on classical symphonic repertoire.

Historical and Educational Value

• Insight into Classical Form:

  • Haydn’s contributions to the development of classical music, particularly the sonata form and symphonic structure, are vividly showcased through these recordings.

• Collection Worthy:

  • This set not only serves as a powerful musical journey through Haydn’s evolution as a composer but also stands as a collectible item for appreciators of period performance and classical heritage.

Hashtags

English:

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Hungarian (Címkék):

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