Orchestra of the 18th Century & Frans Brüggen - Mozart: The Last Three Symphonies (2014) [Hi-Res]

More than three decades have elapsed since Frans Brüggen set down his earlier visions of the three final symphonies by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart with his Orchestra of the Eigtheenth Century. Now, he has chosen to release his new views of these contrasting yet complementary works as part of his Grand Tour series on Glossa. The Dutch maestro has been regularly engaging with the music of the Salzburg genius throughout the time of his musical journey with the Orchestra of the Eighteent Century and the symphonies of Mozart have frequently appeared in their concert schedules.

If the precise, original performing locations for these symphonies remain elusive, the three works – “Jupiter”, K551, the E flat major, K543, and that “evergreen study in the key of G minor”, K550, known by people all around the world as the “Mozart 40” – all clamour for constant and fresh interpretations; these are precisely what Frans Brügge delivers. Recordings on Glossa from Brüggen in recent times – always made whilst on tour – have included Mozart’s concertos for horn, clarinet and violin, as well as the Requiem.

With Stefano Russomanno providing a wellconsidered booklet essay, this new release of the three final Mozart symphonies, available on two CDs and recorded live in Rotterdam, provides eloquent testimony to Frans Brüggen’s ability to summon up the expressiveness and spontaneity demanded by Mozart’s masterpieces from 1788.

“Brüggen, once in the forefront of historically informed practices, has gradually been ploughing his own furrow; and these discs offer examples of his current thoughts that nonetheless still incorporate swift minuets and the use of period instruments. Not heard anywhere is a literal sound-facsimile of notes. Brüggen interprets them as he feels fit.” (Gramophone Magazine)

“Anyone who admires Bruggen’s approach […] is going to be delighted with these performances. Very impressive achievement. Wonderful sound … these performances have such imagination and stature. The live recorded sound is excellent.” (International Record Review)

Orchestra of the Eighteenth Century
Frans Brüggen, conductor