HAYDN: Symphonies No. 102 in B-flat, No. 104 in D, “London” – Royal Philharmonic Orchestra/ Jane Glover – RPM

by | Aug 20, 2010 | Classical CD Reviews | 0 comments

HAYDN: Symphonies No. 102 in B-flat, No. 104 in D, “London” – Royal Philharmonic Orchestra/ Jane Glover – RPM 28420, 54:50 [Distr. by Allegro] ***:

Jane Glover is reaching the “grand old dame” status of British female conductors, and well-deserved no doubt. But I must confess that most of the recordings I have heard by her are by and large mainstream and not especially illuminating when compared with others. She has done a lot of Haydn and recorded a bit, currently this album plus one of these same forces on the same Royal Phil “Audiophile” label of Nos. 101 and 103, and a Naxos collection that has been very well-received of almost all of the masses.

It’s difficult to fault these readings aside from the fact that you can find better ones out there. No. 102 is sprightly and energetic with crisp wind playing and generally fine string work as well, though I noticed a little non-unanimity in a few spots. I was disappointed in the first movement of No. 104, Haydn’s swansong in the genre, and a difficult one to bring off, though she redeems herself with a very lively finale. The sound is very vigorous and well-placed, though I doubt it lives up to the incredible hype on the cover, seemingly directed at the novice Haydn buyer, which is fine, as these recordings go for around seven and one-half bucks, a real bargain for the quality you get.

But neither of these tops Bernstein (Sony), Davis (Philips), or even mono Beecham (EMI) in insight and musical perspective. All of these conductors bring more to the table in terms of excitement and Haydneque detail that is only hinted at here. Nevertheless, taking the company at its word, this might prove well-nigh irresistible for those just starting to dip their fingers into the refreshing waters of Haydn, and to them this is recommended. All others, especially Haydn aficionados, needn’t really bother unless you are inveterate collectors.

— Steven Ritter

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