Joseph & Michael Haydn: Overtures and Symphonies

The Austrian-Hungarian Haydn Philharmonic already bears its expertise for the music of Joseph Haydn in its name. In their latest recording, the renowned orchestra presents works by their namesake alongside music by his younger brother Michael. The latter easily stands up to comparison: under Enrico Onofri's refreshing conducting style, the two highly talented brothers prove to be absolutely on par.

Joseph Haydn's first "London" symphony is also called the "Miracle", alluding to a legend where a chandelier fell from the ceiling during a performance and miraculously no one was injured. Legend aside, the music is quite wonderful: Haydn's skill for refined orchestration is already evident in the dramatic introduction. From here on to the lively finale, there is a magnificent arc, which climaxes in the second movement, bringing the soloistic qualities of the musicians of this top ensemble to the fore.

Michael Haydn's C Major Symphony exudes pure energy: particularly the fugato finale with Onofri's rousing dynamics is a stylish departure from antiquated counterpoint. The overture to "Der bubende Sunder" ("The Atoning Sinner") is just as dramatic, with explosive scalic runs. In contrast, Joseph Haydn's overture to "Philmon and Baucis" presents a cello solo in unison with the first violins which surprises with its almost celestial timbre.

Enrico Onofri, concertmaster of Il Giardino Armonico, is at home with many styles and epochs. Under his baton, orchestral colours emerge and enthrall. Especially the sound of period brass instruments unfolds most spectacularly in three-dimensional reproduction on this high-quality Super Audio CD. A double Haydn programme with passion and impact!

• Haydn, M: Symphony No. 39 in C major, MH 478, P. 31
• Haydn: Philemon und Baucis: Overture in D minor, Hob.Ia:8
• Haydn: Symphony No. 96 in D major 'Miracle'