Vêpres Solonelles

Description

Essential works composed during Mozart’s final Salzburg period, the Vespers illustrate the exceptional richness of invention in Mozart’s orchestral writing, which shines through beyond the profound austerity of the singing. These characteristics are already present in germ form in 1774 in the two movements of the liturgy of the “Vêpres Dixit” and the “Magnificat K.193”. Patrick Peire’s natural and inspired interpretation preserves the spirit of these scores. Attentive to maintaining the balance between soloists, choir and orchestra, and relying on tempi of great fluidity, the “Sunday Vespers” prove highly moving. The mixed choir is convincing and the soloists are no less worthy. In short, this modestly priced record is a recommendable first introduction to these masterpieces.