Composer: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Works: Overtures from The Nozze di Figaro K.492, Bastien und Bastienne K.50, Der Schauspieldirektor K.486, Lucio Silla K.135, Cosi fan Tutte K.588, La Finta Giardiniera K.196, Die Entführung aus dem Serail K.384, Il Re Pastore K.208, Idomeneo K.366, La Clemenza di Tito K.621, Don Giovanni K.527, Die Zauberflöte K.620
Performers: Staatskapelle Dresden, Sir Colin Davis (conductor)
Recording: Recorded 1996, Lukas Kirche, Dresden, DDD, STEREO
Label: RCA
Mozart’s overtures serve as a vibrant prelude not only to the operas they introduce but also to the rich tapestry of his compositional evolution. Each overture encapsulates the essence of its respective opera while simultaneously reflecting the broader artistic developments of the Classical era. This particular recording by Sir Colin Davis and the Staatskapelle Dresden presents an array of these overtures, ranging from the youthful exuberance of Bastien und Bastienne to the intricate emotional landscapes of Don Giovanni and Die Zauberflöte.
The performance is marked by a delightful clarity and buoyancy that is characteristic of Davis’s approach to Mozart. The orchestra’s playing is both crisp and expressive, as evidenced in the overture to Die Entführung aus dem Serail, where the spirited Allegro sets the stage with a blend of drama and charm. Davis’s interpretation eschews overly romanticized gestures, opting instead for a transparent texture that allows the intricate counterpoint to emerge with stunning clarity. The strings in particular are adept at navigating the quicksilver passages, while the woodwinds contribute a warm, singing quality that enriches the overall sound.
Recording quality is commendable, capturing the orchestra’s vibrant sonority in the acoustically favorable environment of Lukas Kirche. The remastering to 24/96 digital format enhances the spatial depth and detail of the sound, providing an immersive listening experience. Each overture is presented with a lifelike immediacy, allowing the listener to discern the delicate interplay between the sections of the orchestra. This clarity is particularly palpable in La Finta Giardiniera, where the dialogue between strings and woodwinds is executed with an enviable finesse that breathes life into the music.
Davis’s seasoned relationship with the Staatskapelle Dresden is evident throughout the disc. Their collective experience in the operatic repertoire lends a synergistic quality to the performance, particularly in the overtures of Cosi fan Tutte and Le Nozze di Figaro, where their nuanced phrasing and dynamic contrasts reflect an understanding of the theatrical context. In Don Giovanni, the overture’s transition from the ominous opening to the buoyant main theme is masterfully handled, with the tension building in a manner that foreshadows the opera’s dramatic unfolding.
This recording stands out not only for its interpretative integrity but also for its affordability, making it an essential acquisition for both the novice and the seasoned collector. The breadth of Mozart’s overtures showcased here provides a comprehensive glimpse into his operatic genius, revealing how each piece serves as a microcosm of the larger narrative. The Staatskapelle Dresden under Sir Colin Davis delivers a performance that is not only technically proficient but also imbued with a palpable enthusiasm for the music. This disc is a remarkable testament to the enduring appeal of Mozart’s work, offering listeners an engaging and richly rewarding experience.
