Patrick Gallois - Mozart: Flute Concertos Nos. 1 & 2, Concerto for Flute & Harp (2003)

Mozart's youthful Flute Concertos, K. 313 and K. 314, and the Concerto for flute, harp, and orchestra, K. 299, may not be obvious choices for a sonic spectacular, but flutist and conductor Patrick Gallois finds enough bright and colorful sonorities in these works to make this recording an audiophile's delight. There is no indication that Gallois or the Swedish Chamber Orchestra use period instruments, yet this almost does not matter in their tasteful performances, which seem in all other respects to observe Classical practices right down to including a harpsichord continuo. The orchestra is expressive and vibrant, and though it lacks the aural sheen that many authentic performances offer, it plays cleanly and with sufficient delicacy and allows the flute its necessary space. As soloist, Gallois keeps his tone in check, perhaps to simulate the more intimate sound of an early flute, and provides his own lively and sensitive cadenzas in K. 313 and K. 314. Also, he collaborates with harpist Fabrice Pierre to produce charming cadenzas full of fanciful repartee in K. 299. This recording was released by Naxos in both standard CD and hybrid SACD formats, with exceptional sound.