Customer Reviews

Mozart: Symphony No. 32; Symphony No. 35; Symphony No. 39

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I do not agree with the previous reviewer comment about the technical quality of the Telarc recording. Technically and artistically this is an outstanding release as are the other Mozart Symphonies by Mackerras on Telarc. I have most but not all of them.

I bought this CD in the hopes that it would revive my interest in these Mozart symphonies, and I was not disappointed. Mackerras and the PCO bring a sparkling, full-bodied brilliance to this music unlike any other orchestra I've heard. In their capable hands, this is truly festival music. In particular, the winds have much more active roles than I usually hear in these symphonies, giving the music a fresh feeling--listen particularly to the piquant little wind entrance at the recapitulation of the last movement of the 39th symphony. Good stuff! Careful attention to details such as those is the order of Mackerras' day. My only (minor) quibble is that at certain points in the music, the brass tend to dominate the other instrument families. In addition, it seems as though the first big forte in the last movement of the 39th isn't quite as powerful as it should be. Aside from those small issues, however, this is an outstanding CD, and worthy to have as your main interpretation of these three works.

Every disc I have heard in the Mozart Symphony series from Sir Charles Mackerras' fruitful collaboration with the Prague Orchestra are simply amazing, and this one is no exception. Mackerras' research into 18th century performance practices is fascinating and when I listen to these fresh and masterful renditions, it's as if I'm hearing them for the very first time. The final movement of No. 35 is thrilling, and overall the tempos on this disc are perfect. The symphonies on this cd span the development of Mozart's musical genius between 1779 (when no. 32 was composed in Salzburg) and 1788, when he wrote the 39th, one of the final three symphonies that are still regarded as three of the greatest achievements in music history. In summary, this is a brilliant recording by one of the very best Mozart interpreters in the world. Don't hesitate---buy it today!

Charles Mackerras has done some remarkable work, and this disc is no exception. Thrilling fast-paced original-instrument-style playing. What a terrible shame that he has done so much of his recording with Telarc. All of they're recordings sound horribly muffled, with no clarity at all. It sounds like you're listening to the concert from outside the concert hall. When the beauty of Mackerras' conducting IS great clarity and brilliance, this is a crime. Oh, Mr. Mackerras, if you're reading this, find another recording company!