Complete Mozart Symphonies [Box set]

Mozart (Composer), Trevor Pinnock (Conductor), Peter Hanson (Performer) | Format: Audio CD

Product Details

• Performer: Peter Hanson
• Conductor: Trevor Pinnock
• Composer: Mozart
• Audio CD (October 8, 2002)
• SPARS Code: DDD
• Number of Discs: 11
• Format: Box set
• Note on Boxed Sets: During shipping, discs in boxed sets occasionally become dislodged without damage. Please examine and play these discs. If you are not completely satisfied, we'll refund or replace your purchase.
• Label: Archiv Produktion
• ASIN: B000069KJ3
• In-Print Editions: MP3 Download
• Average Customer Review: 4.7 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (23 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #16,486 in Music (See Top 100 in Music)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

131 of 137 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Sometimes Less Is More, July 5, 2003

By 

Lawrence S. Povlow (Philadelphia, PA United States) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Complete Mozart Symphonies (Audio CD)

I have to disagree with the Michael B Richman review regarding the comparison of this excellent set to the Hogwood/AAM box. Being a certifiable period-instrument geek, I feel that, although this set is less inclusive, it contains all the most important works and there's really no comparison between them in terms of quality. I am a big fan of both of these ensembles and in fact I own both of these box sets, so I've been able to compare them. The AAM have some trouble with their intonation (this is one of their earliest efforts - they've since fixed the problem in later recordings) and in fact sound downright sour on occassion. I still enjoy it, but this newer set by Pinnock retains all the period-instrument clarity, but with a far more refined and richer sound, especially in the string tone. And the digital recording is excellent while the Hogwood set is mostly analog (although the transfers are first-rate). Bottom line - I like both sets, but if you're looking for one set of Mozart symphonies on period instruments, Pinnock's is the better choice. It may even please some of those whose preference is for modern instruments.

47 of 49 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent technical recording with period instruments, November 20, 2003

By A Customer

This review is from: Complete Mozart Symphonies (Audio CD)

I own both this set and the Hogwood set. This set is miked very closely and sounds much brighter (and louder) than the Hogwood. In fact, the technical aspects of this recording make this set sound much heavier (and modern) than the Hogwood although both use period instruments. If you're looking for a light and airy approach to Mozart, you should probably look to the Hogwood although the sound is a bit thin in some passages. Although this set is certainly excellent, the recording makes it sound very much like a modern orchestra. That is not necessarily bad, but many people who enjoy authentic instruments prefer the lighter approach. I would strongly suggest you listen to samples of both sets prior to purchase.

48 of 52 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The finest authentic instrument set of Mozart's Symphonies, September 30, 2003

By A Customer

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Complete Mozart Symphonies (Audio CD)

My wife and I were married at Mirabel Palace in Salzburg "The City of Mozart", so of course Mozart's music holds a special place in my heart. I must agree with the reviewer below: Pinnock/English Concert have the superior sound over Hogwood/Academy of Ancient Music. Although not as extensive (48 symphonies on 11 CD's as opposed to Hogwood's 72 tracks on 19 CD's) this contains all the essential Mozart symphonies that one could hope for, and the price is accordingly less (around $80 as opposed to $150). The Hogwood cycle are analog recordings (digitally mastered) from the 80's when all the sound bugs from authentic instruments had not been completely worked out yet. The Pinnock cycle are superb digital recordings from 1993-95, presenting a vivid "sound stage" where you feel as if this sublime orchestra is playing right there in your room. Check it out, you won't be disappointed!