Academy of Music

Press, 12 October 1988, Page 21

Academy of Music

& discs

ALLAN FRANCIS

MOZART: The Symphonies Vol. 5. Salzburg, 1775-1783, played by the Academy of Ancient Music, directed by Jaap Schroder, with Christopher Hogwood, continue. Decca CD 421 104-2. ADD. Reviewed by Allan Francis. When the academy set off on the long trail of compiling the total Mozart symphonies — including the childish writings that were scrupulously gathered into the net — many wondered whether this venture was merely an indulgence. Once the later symphonies began to emerge, most of the critics sat up

and began to take notice. This set marks the first of the numbered symphonies, culminating in the “Linz.” Others in the batch include those which were extracted from large-scale serenades. The full virtue of these performances is made possible by the services of Christopher Hogwood and an army of supporters from the authentic brigade who have matched original arrangements with original instruments.

Hearing under these conditions works that are familiar is entirely another matter to works that are really of little merit, and accordingly of minor interest to any but those who are ardent Mozart students. The interpretations are crisp, yet warmer than those on the original LP sets in 1981 (and before), all repeats are observed, and the pitch is slightly flatter than usual. The verdict must be that these performances are important and good to listen to, if only for the academics, but certainly more than mere curiosity items.