Search - Bruggen, Orchestra of the Age of Enlightm :: Haydn: Sturm Und Drang Symphonies

Almost perfect renditions of these utter masterpieces

Mr. P. D. Humphreys | Swindon, UK | 07/19/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Bruggen has been conducting Haydn for some years now - his 'Paris' and 'London' symphonies are very good, but are spoiled by some dodgy speeds, and by inconsistent recordings. However these performances of beautiful but at times slightly elusive music are outstanding. Bruggen leaves out second-half repeats in some finales and most other movements to squeeze more symphonies onto each CD, but that's the only possible criticism. The recording is detailed and warm, and the performances strong and involving. Violins are divided to left and right, as they should be. I've known these gorgeous symphonies since the 1960s, yet here I was noticing new detail. Buy this if you can, you won't regret it."