Customer Reviews

Mozart: Flute Concertos Nos. 1 & 2 / Concerto for Flute & Harp in C, K. 299, 313, 314

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It is always a joy to sink into the sumptuous sonorities of the Mozart Concerto for Flute and Harp, and this recording doesn't disappoint. Rarely do you find recordings of the Mozart flute concertos performed by not only virtuoso soloists, but also accompanied by a world class orchestra. Emmanuel Pahud performs the concertos with the orchestra in which he holds the position of Principal Flute. His tone is always bright, clear and focused and he plays with an absolutely effortless technique. Beautiful flute playing by a fine musician. As would be expected, the Berlin Philharmonic is flawless and Maestro Abbado treats the listener to beautifly shaped musical phrasing. This performance is definately contemporary in its sound and will not be mistaken for a period instrument performance. I you are a lover of Mozart, and especially the wind concertos, this album would be a fine addition to your collection.

Emmanuel Pahud became the principal flutist of the Berlin Phil. at 22, a rare feat, and like his predecessor James Galway, he has gone on to an international solo career. A Swiss-French by birth, Pahud plays in an elegant Gallic style, but even more than Rampal and Nicolet, he aims at utmost delicacy--these Mozart concertos aren't extroverted. The blending of fltue and harp in the K. 285 concerto is quite ravishing, and EMI has provided perfect sonics, totally clear and natural.

Abbado's approach to Mozart tends to be a bit neutral in its clarity and lack of overt emotion, but in this case his style matches Pahd's quite well. Mozart famously disliked the flute, despite the two exquisite concertos he wort for the instrument (the second adapted from a work for oboe). I'm no great lover of the flute, either, but I found both solo concretos enticingly elegant and supple, words that apply to Pahud's playing in general.

This is an excellent recording, as are all of Pahud's that I have. I highly recommend it.

Great CD to own! This is an amazing flute player that is a great challenge to imitate. The recording quality is excellent and is an amazing compliment to any musical library.

The CD was new and played perfectly. Delivery was speedy. The musical performance was beautiful.