MOZART, W.A.: Symphonies Nos. 39, 40, 41 (Dresden Staatskapelle, Suitner) (Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart)

Album review

For Berlin Classic's recording of Mozart's final three symphonies, the Dresden Staatskapelle and conductor Otmar Suitner give solid though uninteresting performances. Recorded in the mid-'70s, the sound quality is quite good and the orchestra's balance is well adjusted and never heavy. Intonation is tight, as would be expected from a notable ensemble like the Dresden Staatskapelle. What the recording is lacking, however, is any real vitality or personality. Suitner's interpretations are rather rigid, like the orchestra is just going through the motions of playing Mozart. Repeated notes are played without variation and the beat is overemphasized throughout, as if a giant metronome was willing the orchestra to accent each and every beat. Tempos are rather conservative, particularly in the fast movements. This is especially true in the outer movements of the G minor Symphony. Though marked Molto allegro and Allegro assai, respectively, these movements quickly become ponderous and uninteresting. While this album may be an acceptable choice for listeners seeking their first such recording, it's unlikely to inspire anyone to run out and expose themselves to more of Mozart's symphonies. It may be worth the extra money to choose a recording made with more passion and conviction.

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