Frank Peter Zimmermann, Antoine Tamestit & Bavarian Radio Chamber Orchestra - Mozart: Violin Concertos Nos. 2 & 5; Sinfonia Concertante (2016)

Frank Peter Zimmermann demonstrates his love for the music of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart in his second installment of the violin concertos on Hanssler Classic. The Violin Concerto No. 2 in D major, K. 211, the Turkish-flavored Violin Concerto No. 5 in A major, K. 219, and the Sinfonia Concertante in E flat major, K. 364 complete the series and make a satisfying program, while Zimmermann's polished and lively playing complements his fine work on the first volume. Backed by Radoslaw Szulc and the Chamber Orchestra of the Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra, Zimmermann interprets these works with a happy compromise between modern and period styles, though the small scale of the orchestra and its bright accompaniment already come close to imitating an authentic Classical sound, so distinctions are probably moot. Zimmermann is joined by violist Antoine Tamestit in the Sinfonia Concertante, and their poignant dialogue in the Andante is the most moving music of the album. But the joy and energy of the two concerto performances are guaranteed to engage the listener, and Haenssler's pristine recording captures all the subtle details with great clarity. -- Blair Sanderson