Long established in Salzburg as a leading ensemble for Classical music performances, the
Mozarteum Orchestra usually observes traditional practices in its robust interpretations of
Mozart's symphonies. Though the orchestra plays modern instruments and appears in larger numbers than most period groups, it nonetheless executes
Mozart's Symphony No. 40 in G minor, K. 550, and the Symphony No. 38 in D major, "Prague," K. 504, with some awareness of authentic practices, and delivers these late works with surprising transparency and vibrant timbres. This is a workable compromise that may appeal to most listeners, and only the most die-hard partisans of Classical interpretation will think less of these performances.
Ivor Bolton sets brisk tempi, takes repeats, and keeps
Mozart's textures clear with his close attention to line and color, particularly in the winds. One might object, however, to
Bolton's stylized crescendi and high-relief dynamics, which shift too frequently to sound natural; and the fairly booming sound of the tympani in K. 504 is a drawback. Yet in spite of these flaws, the performances are still enjoyable for their vigor and expressiveness, and this disc offers pleasant examples of how
Mozart is played in his hometown. Oehms provides fine sound with full instrumental luster and resonance.