This second volume of early Mozart symphonies features a really biting, vivid performance of the "little G minor" K. 183, with its prominent writing for four horns very well realized. The other treat comes in the form of the massive (more than seven minutes) Minuet K. 409, a magnificent work for trumpets and drums whose existence is often overlooked. The other major work here is the vibrant Symphony in G K. 199, a large piece in three movements lasting more than 20 minutes, composed in 1773. The remaining pieces are less consequential, and three of the symphonies here were fashioned from opera overtures: Ascanio in Alba, Il sogno di Scipione, and La finta giardiniera. As you might expect, they are all charming, and immaculately crafted.


Harnoncourt conducts all of this music with evident affection and a welcome absence of affectation. It's fun to hear how he treats minuets: you never know how the trio will relate to its surroundings, but somehow whatever Harnoncourt does always sounds right. It almost goes without saying that the playing of the Concentus Musicus Wien is excellent; the rich, fruity quality of the woodwinds sounds particularly fine in this music, and the sonics are terrific. In short, this is a very appealing release, and it's nice to see these early symphonies coming in a two-disc-per-set format rather than a single big box. This gives you the opportunity to savor each work without feeling obligated to wade through a ton of similar-sounding stuff in one shot.
--David Hurwitz, ClassicsToday.com