Mozart: Symphonies Nos. 35 & 36, Violin Concerto No. 3

Volume III in Russian conductor Maxim Emelyanychev’s survey of Mozart’s symphonies hitches together Symphonies Nos 35 and 36, dating from the composer's mid-twenties. The album’s key selling-point is the vibrantly incisive contribution of Il Pomo d’Oro, the period instrument ensemble Emelyanychev is using for the series. Its virtues cut through clearly in the frolicsome finale of Symphony No. 35, where Mozart's razor-edge dynamic shifts are nailed in the orchestra’s sharp ensemble and quick-witted phrasing. Il Pomo d'Oro can bring elegance to bear, too, both in Emelyanychev's lilting, wistful account of Symphony No. 36’s slow movement, and in the balmy middle movement of Mozart’s Violin Concerto No. 3, programmed between the two symphonies. The concerto’s soloist is Aylen Pritchin, whose nimbly articulated, sweet-toned interpretation suits the concerto’s charm and geniality to a tee. Conductor, orchestra and soloist are all at their finest in the concerto’s blithe finale, where their easy repartee makes for highly pleasurable listening.