London Philharmonic Orchestra, Eugen Jochum - Haydn: 12 "London" Symphonies (1993)

Haydn's "London Symphonies" are among the treasures of western civilization, and it is incredible how his work seems to always stand in the shadow of Beethoven and Mozart, who both knew exactly the extent of Haydn's genius. That said, these recordings stand as the perfect introduction to the man who essentially invented the classical symphonic form as we know it (as well as the string quartet, but that's another matter altogether). The "London Symphonies" are the last twelve Haydn wrote, and they represent, along with his oratorios and the final dozen or so string quartets, the summit of his stunning career. These are spacious, unrestrained, muscular interpretations, and I'm tremendously fond of Jochum's reading of them because they're the first I ever heard. Since then, I've ventured into the Davis, Dorati, and Slatkin recordings, which are in their own fashion just as good and certainly no better than those of Jochum, only you won't get all twelve at such a fabulous bargain price. For me the real highlights here are the "named" symphonies--The "Clock," "Military," "Surprise," "Drum Roll," "Miracle," and "London" (#104). However, the 98th and 102nd are also staggeringly good. In every instant, Jochum is forceful and expansive, and the beautiful singing quality of the strings leaves you in no doubt that the orchestra he's conducting is among the very best. While some original instrument purists might object to these '60s interpretations, just listen to the rather dry and lifeless original instrument recordings made by Tafelmusik under the direction of Bruno Weil (Sony), and I'm sure you'll agree that you just can't go wrong with Jochum.