Symphonie Nr.26 D-Moll "Lamentatione", Symphonie Nr.30 C-Dur "Alleluja", Symphonie Nr.31 D-Dur "Mit Dem Hornsignal"

This recording is part of the landmark project by Antal Dorati and the Philharmonia Hungarica to record all 104 of Joseph Haydn's symphonies for Decca. Undertaken between 1969 and 1972, this ambitious cycle was the first complete set of Haydn symphonies ever committed to vinyl. The project was conceived as a testament to Haydn's evolution as a composer, moving from the Sturm und Drang intensity of the 26th symphony to the more classical brilliance of the 31st.

The Philharmonia Hungarica, an ensemble formed by Hungarian refugees in exile, brought a unique technical precision and a deep connection to the Central European tradition to these performances. Antal Dorati's interpretation was praised for its stylistic clarity and vigorous approach, effectively revitalizing interest in Haydn's less-frequently performed middle symphonies. The release, pressed on the high-quality Decca imprint, remains a cornerstone for classical music collections due to its historical importance and the ensemble's remarkable dedication to the project.