These Mozart renditions fall nicely within the range of what you’d expect from “period-style” performances. Adam Fischer employs brisk tempos–notably so in the slower movements–while cultivating crystalline ensemble timbres from the Danish Radio Sinfonietta. It’s Fischer’s light-hearted phrasing that makes his Mozart sound distinctive. Symphony No. 15 begins in an atmosphere of buoyant energy and good spirits, which the players maintain with enthusiasm and impeccable intonation. This is especially evident in No. 17, where the horns make a grand show of the “hunting” finale. Like No. 15, Symphony No. 18 is in four movements (the others are in three) and displays a noticeable advancement in Mozart’s musical maturity and sophistication–listen to the beautiful and refined woodwind harmonies in the Menuetto’s trio.
The recording is low-level, but it presents the ensemble with satisfactory depth and spaciousness when played at higher volume. Those desiring period Mozart will find much to enjoy in this release. [6/11/2007]
