Highly satisfying performances and recorded sound
Ivor E. Zetler | Sydney Australia | 03/25/2010
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Sir Charles Mackerras, one of the grand old men of the present musical firmament, has made a sizeable series of distinguished Mozart recordings with the Scottish Chamber Orchestra. Although this group plays on modern instruments, Mackerras is well versed with early music principles and applies this to the playing of the SCO. There are two attractions of this set; the admirable performances and the exceptional SACD recorded sound.
Mackerras delivers robust, sensitive (where appropriate) and lively interpretations of these Mozart symphonies. He observes all the standard repeats. These performances are highly satisfying; while there are many alternative versions of these symphonies available, these belong at the top of the list.
Linn, a company that manufactures high end audio products, has captured these renditions in superb sound. Listening on a quality SACD player I found the sonics to be clear, slightly warm and well balanced (apart from some prominence of the brass which I like). The bass response is particularly realistic and natural.
If you are seeking high quality performances of these works with excellent sound you can confidently acquire this set. It certainly is a vast improvement on Mackerras's previous versions of this music that are available on Telarc."
Chuck Mackerras does it again
Teemacs | Switzerland | 04/11/2010
(5 out of 5 stars)
"At an age when the rest of us would be contemplating old folks' homes, Sir Charles produces a series of dazzling performances. These are some of Mozart's very best (the "Haffner" has long been a particular favourite of mine), and here they get superb treatment. The SCO's bright, lively performances and a very nice recording by Linn round it all off perfectly. Highly recommended."