Search - Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, James Levine, Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra :: Mozart: Violin Concertos Nos. 3 & 4; Rondos KV 261a & KV 373

Heifetz or Oistrakh instead

Gorky | 04/23/2000

(2 out of 5 stars)

"Heifetz or Oistrakh instead..... Perlman spends his time in virtuosity, but the issue is more with the orchestra where Levin's direction is totally neutral, lifeless and even boring in some moments... Definitely try the Grumiaux version, Oitrakh (EMI) or Heifetz (Sony). Personnaly i like the power and fantastic sound deployed by Oitrakh's violin in all his records, certainly the most impressive: this man had an incredible force in his arm to play so nicely and he is unique. Heifetz (Sony) is different and in the fourth and fifth concerto, so emotional that you listen the records everyday with the same admiration and emotion. Then you realize why Mozart was unique, and also why he deserves that artists make the effort at least to be lively when playing his music and not monotone. Mozart violin concertos are uncomparable, and I would advise staying away from this record."

Best of the modern instrument digital versions...

J. Buxton | Waltham, MA United States | 01/30/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I cannot argue with another reviewer's glowing praise for the Oistrakh (although Oistrakh did not have the benefit of digital sound), but in my opinion the Perlman by no means takes a back seat to it. I have always found this recording to be fresh and engaging. The violin playing is sweet and warm, as Perlman seems most concerned with making the most of each phrase. The ambience of the recording I found to be very pleasing, and the orchestral playing shows a great deal of dynamic range and sensitivity to the composer's intention with these works. In short, I have been very happy with this recording of these works for many years and I can confidently recommend it."