18th Century Classics

The classical symphony is so dominated by the twin figures of Haydn & Mozart that it is all too easy to overlook the considerable contributions which were made by many lesser figures. The Naxos... — The Independent, September 1999 More…

The Vanhal symphonies are technically exceptional and capable of going toe-to-toe with the middle-period symphonies of Haydn and even several of Mozart's. Vanhal's thematic material is often... — American Record Guide, July/August 2001 More…

Yet again, Naxos have shown the way! The range of their bargain price recordings continues to spread apace. — Early Music Review, April 1996 More…

a prolific and gifted composer, and it's unaccountable that this is the first CD devoted to him... Viktor Lukas and his consort perform this music with relish — Gramophone Magazine More…

With spirited playing from the Nicolaus Esterhazy Sinfonia, this is another valuable addition to the ongoing Naxos survey of the rarer Reaches of the 18th-century symphony. — Classic FM Magazine, February 2000 More…

With pointed phrasing, well-graded crescendi, disciplined tremoli and prominent wind, the Northern CO, even though playing on modern instruments, recreates a good idea of what those early Mannheim... — Hi-Fi News, August 1999 More…

These period-instrument performances are characterized by pellucidity, joie d'vivre, and tight ensemble. Fresh and erudite, poised and vibrant, the performers have mastered the balance of scholarship... — American Record Guide, July/August 2001 More…