If you're searching for stylish, elegant, and entertaining Mozart, look no further. The
Mozarteum-Orchester Salzburg -- founded by Mozart's widow and sons in 1841 -- is wonderfully poised, brilliantly virtuosic, and completely dedicated to the music of the city's most famous native son. In these 2005 recordings of the Sinfonia concertante, K. 297b, and Serenade in D major, K. 204, the
Mozarteum Orchester performs with the kind of joyful and soulful enthusiasm that makes Mozart's lighter music so enjoyable. The four wind soloists in the Sinfonia concertante sound more like singers than instrumentalists: every line is played with consummate artistry as well as whole-hearted affection. The violin soloist in the Serenade sounds more like he's dancing than playing: every line is played with a light, bright tone and a buoyant sense of rhythm. In both works, conductor
Hubert Soudant leads the players with a firm but flexible hand, shaping performances that must have been as delightful to perform as they are to hear. With crisp, direct sound from Oehms, this disc is suitable for listening or for entertaining.