Having spent a lifetime honing the artistic possibilities of the symphony, Joseph Haydn found perfection late in his career, writing his final--and arguably, most momentous--symphonies during his extended sojourn in England. A thoughtful and attentive conductor, Charles Mackerras is at the helm of New York City's Orchestra of St. Luke's for these 1991-92 recordings, delivering nuanced performances of Symphony No. 100 ("Military") and No. 103 ("Drumroll"). For Symphony No. 101 ("The Clock") the energy level is high, and the famed Andante movement is played with warmth. Finally, the ensemble's rendition of No. 104 ("London") brings out Haydn's boisterous side without losing any refinement.