The Australian Haydn Ensemble ended their successful 2015 program series with an exploration of Haydn’s Esterházy orchestra and his three symphonic interpretations of the day. Throughout the performance the musicians displayed a level of interaction that was only outshone by their obvious love and enjoyment of the Haydn’s music. The concert began with Haydn’s Symphony No. 6 ‘Le Matin’ (morning). From the opening figure, representing the sunrise, the sold out audience was drawn into the performance. The ensemble’s approach to this work, particularly Destrubé’s beautifully performed solo in the second movement, and the program as a whole, demonstrated their reverence for Haydn and their love of his creations. The second work in the program Symphony No. 7, “Le midi” (noontime), showcased charming interplay between Destrubé’s and McIntosh, and Destrubé’s and Yeadon. This latter duet, characterised by a lyrical and tender approach was contrasted by rustic and endearing flute passages. Dossor, who moved around her instrument ease and grace, beautifully performed the double bass solo in the Trio.
The second half began with Haydn’s harpsichord concerto in D major with soloist Erin Helyard. According to the program Helyard’s interpretation employs many stylistic features of the early 1780s, particularly a more variable approach to tempo. The result of this interpretation, and the performer’s technical brilliance, was an extremely expressive performance, which culminated in a particularly joyful and humourous finale. The concert culminated in the last of Haydn’s day Symphonies, No 8. “Le Soir”, (evening), in which all the performers displayed a renewed vigor and playfulness. Once again there was exquisite duets and another bass solo, all of which served to display Haydn’s compositional mastery, the performers’ skills and their love of the music. The finale in particular gave both audience and performers a rousing end to the year’s performances.
Australian Haydn Ensemble Haydn’s Esterhazy Orchestra | Monday 21st December 2015 | Sydney Opera House Utzon Room
