Like all the other works in Haydn's series of twelve London symphonies,
the Symphony No. 98 was first performed as part of a series of concerts
featuring the violinist Johann Peter Salomon. Haydn conducted these
concerts from the piano in 1792 and was accorded a rapturous reception by
the London audience. Whilst the Allegro in the first movement bears the
unmistakable stamp of Mozart's influence, the extravagant swagger of the
Minuet already anticipates Beethoven's Scherzi. Haydn's energy and dramatic
wit are then seen at their best in the finale, which is packed with musical
jests and playful flourishes. The work is one which deserves more attention
that it has hitherto received.
Leonard Bernstein began conducting Haydn's orchestral works when he was
still Music Director of the New York Philharmonic Orchestra. Since then,
his interpretations of the symphonies have consistently met with unreserved
critical acclaim. He, of all conductors, possessed precisely the qualities
which Haydn's music requires: grace, charm and a generous measure of wit.
This production with the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra was recorded in
1984.
