Within 20 years of his London triumphs, Haydn was almost forgotten, as the 19th century wrongly associated his name with aristocratic elitism.
Performer Biography
Roger Norrington, the conductor, founded the London Classical Players in 1978 to research performance practice on original instruments.
Historical Context
During Haydn's first London season, Mozart had already died in Vienna, and Beethoven had not yet achieved his later fame, positioning Haydn as the greatest composer of his time.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Haydn's music, with its majestic grandeur, folk-like simplicity, and humor, was initially developed for princes like the Esterházys but also resonated with a new middle-class audience.
Interpretation
This recording by Roger Norrington and the Stuttgart RSO focuses on a historically informed playing style, emphasizing orchestra size, seating, tempo, phrasing, articulation, and sound.
Composer Biography
Joseph Haydn, the composer, came from humble beginnings as the son of a wheelwright and a cook, but rose to international fame.
Composition History
Haydn composed these twelve London Symphonies during two extended visits to London in 1791 and 1794, after already having written 92 symphonies.
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