Haydn: Piano Concertos Nos. 3, 4, 9 and 11

While, unlike Mozart, Haydn never made a living as a keyboard soloist, he nevertheless came nearest to Mozart in the best known of his keyboard concertos, No. 11 in D major. First performed in Paris in 1784 this is a work of the composer’s maturity, with strikingly dramatic contrasts, an expressive slow movement and an infectious Hungarian Rondo. Although slight by comparison, if not in craftsmanship, Concerto No. 3 is notable for its wistful slow movement and lively Finale, while Concerto No. 4, with its elaborate solo part, includes a dramatic and sombre Andante cantabile, and an exuberant Rondo.