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HAYDN: 107 Symphonies. For decades collectors have treasured the famous Decca/London set of all of the Haydn symphonies recorded 1969-1972 by Antal Dorati with the Philharmonia Hungarica, the first major recording of the complete set. Now Decca offers this superlative set of not only the 104 known symphonies, but two others identified here as "A:"" andB (actually both are partitas), plus the Sinfonia Concertante. This is the first recording of all works performed on period instruments, and artists involved could not be more appropriate for their tasks. All of the performers have highest credentials for their work in this repertory. The ensemble includes such well-known artists as i' violinists Simon Standage, Monica Huggett and MIchaela Humbert, Jam Schlapp and Trevor Jones, viola; Anthony Ploeeth and Ward Clarke, cello; Stephen Preston, flute, and Christopher Hogwood, fortepiano, along with the Solomon Quartet These are not new recordings; the earliest was made in 1983, and all were recorded in varied locations, mostly in London: : St. Barnabas, North Finchey/; Kingsway Hall, Walthamstow Hall, Henry Wood Hall, Blackheath Concert Halls, and Italy's Teatro Goldoni. Different engineers were involved, but all were experts of their craft providing a clear, detailed sound. A 52-page booklet contains recording details and pertinent information. As with other big-box Decca issues, each CD has its own cardboard container that lists tracks and timings. And this is a super-budget issue. Don't miss it! R.E.B. (May 2016)
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