George Frideric Handel - Symphonies 49 & 87 [CD]

The Handel and Haydn Society presents one of Haydn's early Sturm und Drang (storm and stress) symphonies - No.49 in F minor, more commonly known as 'La Passione' because of it's dark, brooding penitential adagio. Symphony No. 87, the last of the six masterly 'Paris' Symphonies, displays Haydn's astonishing craftsmanship and, along with symphonies 82-86, were the first symphonies since the Sturm und Drang days. The Paris Symphonies blended an approachable and popular style with an inventiveness and broad emotional range that revealed new possibilities in what was still a relatively youthful genre. Completing the programme is Mozart's elegiac and richly beautiful Sinfonia Concertante performed by H+H's inspirational concertmaster, Aisslinn Nosky and viola player Max Mandel. Handel and Haydn Society is America's oldest continuously operating arts organization. Harry Christophers has been Artistic Director since 2008.