Prom 39: 14.08.16 - Haydn, Charlotte Bray and Mahler

[antongould]

Thanks to the wonders of iplayer I managed to listen to this Prom today. I can only echo the views already made. The Haydn symphony I didn't really know but thoroughly enjoyed and the Mahler was, I felt, absolutely wonderful ......

[jean]

Haydn Symphony no 34 in D minor (Prom. Premiere)
Storm and Stress part 1! Phew, a symphony commencing with an adagio movement of weight and intensity! Revealingly balanced by Sakari Oramo, I was delighted to hear this work that was new to me. I felt its kinship with the Lamentatione Symphony that I’ve plundered for funerals. Structurally quite simple, the quality of Haydn’s inspiration makes this adagio compelling listening. The loving care that Sakari took over this movement was endearing.

No doubt, the Court was electrified, as I was, by the stirring Allegro that followed. Skittering violins alternated with chattering oboes. All very bracing and inventive with horns added to enrich the development. Extremely witty and diverting. Again, playing and direction were exemplary and revelatory.

The short Minuet was a fresh take on the conventions governing such dances. Haydn was happy to throw in new effects and then to sort out the mix into a successful whole. Hats off to a genius.

The finale was a real romp, a rustic jig that asked a great deal of the violin section. Vital playing from the whole band made this my stand-out performance of this Prom Season.This was Haydn playing of the highest quality. I loved it and, from the response of the RAH audience, I guess, it felt likewise...

Thanks for this & the other knowledgable reviews here.

...The Haydn was delicious...

Exactly the word that came to mind when I was finally able to listen!

[Nick Armstrong]

Able to catch most of the rebroadcast of the Mahler on the move this afternoon - great to be reminded especially of the thrilling solo horn performance which so impressed in the hall on the night, as did the performance as a whole. Top flight stuff.