As with previous volumes in this series, these almost completely unfamiliar early Haydn works (though very popular in their day) are a constant source of pleasure as well as remarkable formal variety. No. 19, for example, follows the pattern Allegro/Minuet/Presto, and the music has a freshness and rhythmic interest (in the finale) that will have you thinking of Stravinsky’s Pulcinella. No. 22 starts with a gorgeous Adagio Siciliano, followed by an Allegro and a concluding Minuet. The last two works on the disc, Nos. 23 and 24, are two-movement works (Moderato-Minuet), possibly intended for students, but no less attractive for that.
The only quibble I have with these performances is that the minuets could be taken somewhat quicker, or at least with perhaps a sharper rhythmic profile. That aside, the playing of the Viennese musicians leaves very little to be desired. Slow movements are particularly beautiful, warm and singing, while the engineering is very natural and unobtrusive. These Japanese discs are difficult to find now outside of Japan, but if you come across them they deserve serious consideration. [5/11/2009]
