Mozart’s horn concertos pose no special interpretive problems, requiring a soloist with a rich tone, smooth legato, and a touch of bravura. David Jolley, well known to music lovers through his work with the Orpheus Chamber Orchestra, has all of these qualities. He brings a creamy, Romantic tone to the slow movements (especially the Larghetto of Concerto No. 3) and takes the finales at a challenging clip that provides plenty of liveliness and fun, not to mention a good amount of sheer healthy virtuosity. Conductor Uri Mayer and the Israel Sinfonietta match him with stylish accompaniments that bristle with rhythmic energy in the quick movements of each work. Naturally balanced sonics offer both warmth and clarity. There are certainly many distinguished recordings of these pieces. This one is as good as any, and better than most.
