Composer: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Works: Serenade No. 4 in D major, K203 (1774), Vier Kontratänze, K101 (1776), Serenade No. 5 in D major, K204 (1775)
Performers: Tero Latvala (violin), Tapiola Sinfonietta, cond. Jean-Jacques Kantorow
Recording: Recorded September 1999 (K203/204) and April 2000 (K101) at the Tapiola Concert Hall, Finland
Label: BIS
Mozart’s serenades, particularly those with lower Köchel numbers, often inhabit a realm perceived as lighter fare, overshadowed by the more illustrious symphonies and concertos that followed. However, the brilliance of the Serenade No. 4 and No. 5 reveals a depth of invention that belies their categorization as mere entertainment. Written during a formative period in Mozart’s life, these works exemplify his burgeoning mastery of orchestration and thematic development, blending charm with surprising complexity. This recording by the Tapiola Sinfonietta under the direction of Jean-Jacques Kantorow captures the essence of these compositions, showcasing Mozart’s ability to balance simplicity and sophistication.
The performances here are imbued with a vivacity that brings out the playful character of the music. Tero Latvala, as the concertmaster, effortlessly navigates the virtuosic passages, particularly in the solo violin sections of K203 and K204. His cadenzas, crafted by Kantorow, strike a commendable balance between creativity and stylistic fidelity, enhancing the concerto-like quality of the second, third, and fourth movements of K203. The winds, a hallmark of Mozart’s orchestration, shine brightly throughout, particularly in their lively interplay with the strings. The horn section, crucial in establishing the harmonic framework, executes their high-lying passages with remarkable precision, contributing to the overall buoyancy of the ensemble’s sound.
The engineering of this recording deserves particular note, as it allows the intricate textures of Mozart’s scoring to emerge clearly. The spacious acoustics of the Tapiola Concert Hall facilitate a vibrant sound palette, where the individual voices of the orchestra can be distinctly appreciated without losing the cohesive blend that is essential to these serenades. The unusual textures, such as the trilling semiquavers in the second violin line of the Andante from K203, are rendered with a beguiling clarity, inviting listeners to explore the subtleties of Mozart’s harmonic language.
A noteworthy feature of these serenades is their harmonic adventurousness, especially in K203, where Mozart deviates from the expected tonal paths. The transition into F-sharp minor in the first movement is a striking moment that exemplifies his innovative spirit. Similarly, the dual structure of the concluding movement of K204, merging the lyrical Andante with an energetic Allegro, showcases a delightful sense of humor reminiscent of Haydn’s playful style. These moments of unexpected harmonic shifts and structural ingenuity are what elevate these works from mere background music to essential listening.
This recording stands out not only for its interpretative vitality but also for its technical finesse, which rivals notable previous renditions. Kantorow’s direction provides a fresh perspective on these familiar pieces, inviting listeners to revisit and appreciate the fine details and intricate interplay that Mozart so masterfully crafted. The Tapiola Sinfonietta’s commitment to authenticity while embracing a lively interpretation makes this disc a significant addition to the catalog of Mozart’s serenades.
A treasure indeed, this recording of Mozart’s Serenade No. 4 and No. 5 not only delights the ear but also enriches the mind, inviting a deeper appreciation for the nuanced artistry of one of classical music’s greatest composers.
