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…

This is the set of Opus 18 we've been waiting for...This is natural music-making from people who seem to live this kind of music. — American Record Guide 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…

Benda directs light, well-sprung accounts with extra light and shade. The excellent sound is full and open as well as immediate, and these winning works are well worth exploring. — Penguin Guide, 2011 edition More…

The exhilarating CPE Bach symphonies presented here aren't the more frequently recorded, surprise-filled string symphonies of 1773 (H657-62), but the set of four for strings, flutes, oboes,... — Gramophone Classical Music Guide, 2010 More…