Bernstein's Best Mozart
Vivek H. Dehejia | Ottawa, Canada | 04/11/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This was Bernstein's first foray with the Vienna Philharmonic,recorded in 1966, shortly after his "Falstaff" at the ViennaState Opera, and marked the beginning of their celebrated lifelong collaboration. Bernstein did not record a whole lot of Mozart (alas, no complete opera), and this is arguably the best Mozart recording he made. This was the heyday of Decca's recordings of the VPO in the Sofiensaal and the balances are well-nigh perfect. Matching the superb sound are Bernstein's exemplary, very classical performances, contrary to stereotype. Concerto No. 15 is very fine, and this is one of the best recordings of the "Linz" in the catalogue. A must-have for Bernstein and Mozart fans."