The recording features Concentus Musicus Wien, an ensemble that cooperated with Nikolaus Harnoncourt for over thirty years on hundreds of recordings.
Recording & Production
This album was recorded in December 2001 and June 2002 at the Mozartsaal, Konzerthaus, Vienna, and produced by Martin Sauer.
Composer Biography
Haydn never visited Paris, the city for which these symphonies are named, and was 52 years old when he received the commission.
Composition History
Joseph Haydn's 'Paris' Symphonies were commissioned in 1784 by the directors of the 'Concert de la Loge Olympique' in Paris for 25 Louis d'or apiece.
Compositional Technique
Each of the six 'Paris' Symphonies is in a different key, with only one in a minor key, showcasing Haydn's diverse skills.
Historical Context
The 18th-century musical aesthetic, which Haydn followed, considered arousing emotions as a main purpose of music, a view later challenged by critics like Eduard Hanslick.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Haydn used non-musical ideas, like stories or 'programmes,' to inspire his imagination, but he kept these inspirations secret from the public.
