COMPOSERS: Mozart
LABELS: Meridian
WORKS: Divertimenti for three basset horns K439b
PERFORMER: Mannheim Ensemble
CATALOGUE NO: CDE 84267 DDD
No composer exploited the velvety warmth of the clarinet family more lovingly than Mozart, and these 25 pieces (grouped into five divertimenti after his death) are veritable miracles of variety and inventiveness. The Mannheim Ensemble performs them with unfailing affection and musicality, though perhaps a shade too smoothly, with dynamic contrasts generally underplayed. Highly recommended, nevertheless, to anyone who wants to explore a little known facet of Mozart’s genius. Misha Donat
Mozart: Divertimenti for three basset horns K439b
No composer exploited the velvety warmth of the clarinet family more lovingly than Mozart, and these 25 pieces (grouped into five divertimenti after his death) are veritable miracles of variety and inventiveness. The Mannheim Ensemble performs them with unfailing affection and musicality, though perhaps a shade too smoothly, with dynamic contrasts generally underplayed. Highly recommended, nevertheless, to anyone who wants to explore a little known facet of Mozart’s genius. Misha Donat
