As part of its ongoing Dieter Klöcker edition CPO has licensed this 1974 EMI Consortium Classicum recording of Franz Joseph Haydn’s 6 Notturni, written for the King of Naples. What distinguishes these works is the original score’s inclusion of parts for two “Lyra organizzata”, which are hand-held wind instruments about the size of a hurdy-gurdy with the register of a small portative organ (the instrument used in this recording, as no “authentic” originals survive). Other than that, there’s nothing musically that sets these Notturni apart from rest of Haydn’s prodigious oeuvre of Divertimenti, Serenades, and Cassations. Like them, these are light, pleasant, innocuous works intended typically for entertainment during banquets, soirées, and other such events often held outdoors. I imagine that the performers would enjoy playing these delightful pieces, which are filled with irresistibly charming moments–for instance, the final Allegro con brio of Notturno No. 2, where the horns playfully mimic the organs while the clarinets and the double bass cheerfully engage one another in the musical equivalent of hide and seek. The slower movements as well allow the musicians equal time for similar shenanigans.
Perhaps the silliest instance occurs in the Andante of Notturno No. 5 where the organs seemingly assume the programmatic role of a swaggering choo-choo train, the rest of the ensemble lumbering along in tow. Lighthearted instrumental escapades like this abound, although too much of this may leave listeners feeling as if the performers are getting more out of the music than they are. CPO’s transfer of EMI’s original analog sound is excellent, Klöcker’s brief booklet notes are informative, and the Consortium Classicum’s performances couldn’t be bettered. If an hour of well-crafted, even-keeled, moderately spirited 18th-century background music is what you’re looking for, here you go.
