Recorded between 1988 and 1993, and previously released as individual discs, this 2004 box set of Mozart's complete symphonies features exciting performances by
Nicholas Ward and the
Northern Chamber Orchestra, and
Barry Wordsworth and the
Capella Istropolitana. Discs 1-6, under
Ward's direction, present the first 24 symphonies in sequence, with the Symphonies No. 26 and No. 37 included. The remaining 15 symphonies, conducted by
Wordsworth, fill up the last five discs in a staggered arrangement. This corresponds to the order of the original CDs -- the repressing no doubt reduces production costs -- but it requires that the uninitiated pay close attention to the booklet for track listings. Beyond that difficulty, the performances are quite enjoyable and refreshing. Both conductors take brisk tempi and observe aspects of authentic performance practice, and their orchestras manage something close to a lean and bright period sound, even though the instruments are apparently modern. The recorded sound varies a little, for
Ward's performances are noticeably closer than
Wordsworth's, perhaps because of microphone logistics in the different concert halls. Once accommodation is made for this, though, the listener can sit back and enjoy these fine performances without sudden volume adjustments. Part of the desirable White Box series, this set is de rigueur for collectors.