Amadeus: The Complete Original Soundtrack Recording [BOX SET] [ORIGINAL RECORDING REISSUED] [ORIGINAL RECORDING REMASTERED] [SOUNDTRACK]

That said, the selections are quite in tune with the film itself, which quite uniquely makes this soundtrack valuable both to people who loved the film as well as those who have never seen it. Perhaps 90% of the tracks are the compositions of Mozart, including the Commendatore scene of "Don Giovanni" and the Queen of the Night aria from "The Magic Flute." The remaining tracks consist of music heard during various scenes in the film, including the finale from Salieri's opera "Axur." Enough new material is here to warrant buying this set over one of the other less expensive editions of the "Amadeus" soundtrack.

In short, the music contained herein is a virtual greatest hits album of Mozart, virtual only in that it's scope must be limited to only 3 discs. On an incidental note, even the conductor and symphony orchestra performing the selections are recognized as being among the foremost interpreters of Mozart's music; yet another reason to purchase the Bicentennial Edition. It also includes a wonderful album-sized booklet detailing much of the behind the scenes work involved, as well as portions of the story. All very nicely done, especially for an average price of approximately $12 per disc. I have hundreds of Mozart's CDs in my collection, but I most often return to this, the most concise package of his music. Whether you enjoyed the film and its music, or you simply wish to widen out your musical horizons to include Mozart's music, this is the set to buy.

Marriner is a wonderful conductor, but there are moments on this disc that are simply inadequate - namely The Queen of the Night's aria from 'Flute.' I have heard many many better readings than this. Christina Deutekom under the direction of Solti, with the Vienna Philharmonic is simply incredible as the Queen. This recording (complete) is hard to find, but amazon has a highlights version. It's the best 'Flute' out there.

The Commendatore Scene from 'Don Giovanni' is well done, but pales in comparison to what Eberhard Wachter did under the direction of Guilini - this recording has been called the greatest opera recording ever. One critic said there's a better chance we will see pigs fly than there is that a 'Don Giovanni' will be made that can rival Guilin's.

The scenes from 'The Marriage of Figaro' also pale in comparision to what Guilini, Solti, Bohm, and Muti for that matter have done.

So, I guess it's the opera scenes that I find most laking in this set, but as a whole it's truly a wonderful intro to Mozart's music.

If you want to explore his operas further, I recommend.

Marriage of Figaro - Guilini's all star set is highly regarded, but being that it's on 2 discs - two arias have been omitted. Solti's reading is excellent as well and complete. Bohm's complete recording is a true gem. Lastly, Muti's reading (while not with the best cast) features the Vienna Philharmonic, who truly blows any other orchestra in the world away and this set is worth it alone to hear this orchestra play this score.

Don Giovanni - The Guilini set with Sutherland, Schwartzkopf, Taddei, and Wachter. It is simply incomparable.

Magic Flute - Solti's 1970's reading with Prey, Duetekom, and the Vienna Philharmonic is unmatched in singing and energy. Again - the Vienna Philharmonic outshines any other orchestra I've heard play this score. Highlights is available on Amazon. Be cautious, Solti did another 'Flute' with the Vienna Philharmonic, with Sumi Jo at the helm. It's ok. Bohm's is also stupendous and a bargin at a cheap price.

Cosi fan tutte - totally overlooked in Amadeus, this is the third and final collaboration between Mozart and DaPonte (Figaro and Don G. being the first two). Cosi contains some of Mozart's most sublime music and features some of his best ensemble work. Ludwig, Schwartzkopf, Taddei, Kraus, and Berry under the direction of Bohm is your absolute best bet.

"Bach sits at the left hand of God. Beethoven sits at the right hand of God. Mozart sits in God's lap!"