Haydn, English Sinfonia, Sir Charles Groves – Symphony No.92 In G, "Oxford" / Symphony No.104 In D, "London"

Joseph Haydn – Symphonies Nos. 92 “Oxford” & 104 “London”
English Sinfonia · Sir Charles Groves

This recording presents two of the crowning achievements of Haydn’s late symphonic output, performed by the English Sinfonia under Sir Charles Groves. It highlights the composer’s wit, structural ingenuity, and mastery of orchestral colour at the height of the Classical symphonic tradition.

Joseph Haydn is often called the “father of the symphony,” and these two works show why his influence was so profound. The “Oxford” Symphony (No. 92), composed in the spirit of intellectual refinement and ceremonial occasion, combines elegance with lively rhythmic invention. Groves shapes the music with clarity and balance, allowing its conversational interplay between orchestral sections to come through naturally.

The later “London” Symphony (No. 104), the final symphony Haydn completed, is broader in scale and richer in dramatic contrast. From its stately introduction to its energetic finale, the work reflects both compositional maturity and a confident command of form. The performance emphasises its grandeur while retaining Haydn’s characteristic lightness of touch.

Together, these symphonies offer a vivid portrait of Classical symphonic writing at its peak - graceful, inventive, and full of character.

Tracklist:

Symphony No. 92 in G Major “Oxford”, Hob. I:92
1 – I. Adagio – Allegro spiritoso
2 – II. Adagio cantabile
3 – III. Menuetto: Allegretto
4 – IV. Finale: Presto

Symphony No. 104 in D Major “London”, Hob. I:104
5 – I. Adagio – Allegro
6 – II. Andante
7 – III. Menuetto: Allegro
8 – IV. Finale: Allegro spiritoso