Unlike genres such as the symphony and the piano concerto, to which Mozart turned throughout his short lifespan, his five violin concertos were all composed during a brief period early in his career from 1773 to 1775. Unlike the symphony and piano concerto, which can be used to observe the changes in Mozart's approach to composition, the violin concertos offer only this brief cross section. Still, there are subtle variations between the works, perhaps as much as Mozart could get away with while under the thumb of Count Colloredo. The five concertos are all very strong compositions -- graceful, transcendent examples of Mozart's comfort with the instrument.
On this particular collection of the concertos, Katrin Scholz is able to run as many parts of the show as could ever be expected. She fills the role of soloist, conductor (of the Chamber Orchestra of Berlin), and even composer (she wrote the cadenzas for three of the five concertos). Such a level of control ensures that the artist is truly giving the listener the clearest possible representation of their vision. What she gives to listeners is quite lovely, indeed. Her sound is crisp and articulate. She plays with power and gusto and does not approach Mozart with undesirable timidity. The orchestra matches Scholz's vision exactly; everything from articulation to phrasing lines up precisely. Slow movements are gentle and serene and fast movements are vivacious. The recorded sound of soloist and orchestra alike are exceptionally clear and give the impression that the performers are in the room with you.
© TiVo