Michael Haydn Serenade – on par with Mozart
By Ralph Graves
Johann Michael Haydn was Franz Joseph Haydn’s younger brother. It’s not surprising that Michael’s work is seldom performed. Who could compete with brother Franz, the father of the symphony and the string quartet?
But during their lifetimes, that fame didn’t matter. Michael Haydn had a successful career and was well-thought of by his contemporaries. And it’s not that his music is bad. It’s quite good — it’s just that brother Franz’s is great.
The 1768 Serenade in D major is one of Michael’s most recorded compositions (his trumpet concerto holds the record). And in this case, it’s the only work on the record.
Serenades were designed for light listening, and this one is no exception. It consists of short movements with simple and appealing melodies. And in that regard, the work compares favorably to those of Mozart and brother Franz.
Michael’s Serenade showcases different instruments, adding variety and interest to the proceedings. Violin, cello, flute, horn, and trombone all get some time in the spotlight. The Virtuosi Saxoniae perform in a slightly reserved fashion appropriate to the style. This was music designed to pass the time with pleasant listening, and in that it succeeds.
I wouldn’t recommend the Serenade as an introduction to Michael Haydn. If you’re already familiar with his work, this will make a nice addition to your collection.
Johann Michael Haydn: Serenade in D major, P.87
Virtuosi Saxoniae; Ludwig Güttler, conductor
Capriccio Encore, C8003
