Review by Jack Gracie

Symphonies Nos 101-104 by J Haydn, performed by The Scottish Chamber Orchestra under the direction of Raymond Leppard, is a remarkable album. The orchestra's interpretation of Haydn's works is both dynamic and nuanced, bringing out the composer's wit and humor as well as his more serious moments.

The album begins with Symphony No. 101, "The Clock," which features a playful ticking motif that recurs throughout the piece. The orchestra's performance captures the liveliness and energy of this symphony, making it a delightful listen.

Symphony No. 102, which follows, is a more serious work, with a powerful opening movement that showcases the orchestra's ability to convey the emotional depth of Haydn's music. The second movement, a somber adagio, is particularly moving.

Symphony No. 103, "Drumroll," is another standout piece on the album. The orchestra's performance of the opening drumroll is both dramatic and precise, setting the tone for the rest of the symphony. The third movement, a minuet and trio, is particularly charming, with the orchestra's playful interpretation bringing out the humor in Haydn's music.

The album concludes with Symphony No. 104, "London," which is perhaps the most well-known of Haydn's symphonies. The orchestra's performance of this piece is masterful, capturing the grandeur and majesty of the music. The second movement, a beautiful and melancholy adagio, is a highlight of the album.

Summary by Jack Gracie

Symphonies Nos 101-104 by J Haydn, performed by The Scottish Chamber Orchestra under the direction of Raymond Leppard, is an outstanding album that showcases both the technical skill and emotional depth of Haydn's music. Highly recommended for classical music enthusiasts and newcomers alike.