Haydn – Symphonies Nos. 94 “Surprise”, 100 “Military” & 101 “Clock” (Decca Virtuoso) CD

UPC: 0028947854067 

MPN: 478 5406 DB 

Brand Name: Decca / Universal Music Group

Overview

This Virtuoso series release from Decca presents three of Joseph Haydn’s most beloved symphonies, performed by the Philharmonia Hungarica under the legendary Antal Dorati. The “Surprise,” “Military,” and “Clock” symphonies showcase Haydn’s wit, invention, and rhythmic brilliance, brought vividly to life in Dorati’s spirited and joyous interpretations. A landmark in the recorded Haydn symphony cycle, this album remains a benchmark for clarity, energy, and charm.

Product Features

• Format: Audio CD
• Total Length: 74:56
• Genre: Classical / Orchestral
• Series: Virtuoso (Decca)
• Orchestra: Philharmonia Hungarica
• Conductor: Antal Dorati
• Recording Year: 1974
• Label: Decca Music Group Limited ©2013
• Manufactured in: EU

Interesting Facts

• Haydn’s Symphony No. 94 “Surprise” (1791) is famous for its sudden fortissimo chord in the slow movement, designed to wake up inattentive London audiences.
• Symphony No. 100 “Military” (1794) gained its nickname from the use of percussion effects — including triangle, cymbals, and bass drum — evoking Janissary bands.
• Symphony No. 101 “Clock” (1794) owes its name to the “ticking” rhythm in its second movement, one of Haydn’s most charming orchestral inventions.
• Dorati’s complete Haydn symphony cycle with the Philharmonia Hungarica was one of the first ever recorded, celebrated for its freshness, consistency, and vitality.
• Gramophone highlighted Dorati’s approach as capturing “the sparkle, the joy of the inspiration,” praising the absence of routine and the palpable delight in the performances.

Track Listing

Symphony No. 94 in G major, “Surprise” 1–4. Total time: 22:11 (23:32 on disc timings)

Symphony No. 100 in G major, “Military” 5–8. Total time: not individually listed (approx. 22–23 minutes)

Symphony No. 101 in D major, “Clock” 9–12. Total time: 29:13

Total Album Time: 74:56

Publishers

Decca Music Group Limited ©2013 A Universal Music Company

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