Rosetti symphonies and piano concerto sparkle in new CPO release

Antonio Rosetti (1750-1792) is perhaps best-known today for his horn concerti. Mozart is said to have modeled his after Rosetti's. During Rosetti's lifetime, though, it was his symphonies that brought him fame. It's easy to hear why in this new release from CPO.

The two symphonies on this release stylistically fall between those of Haydn and Mozart. Rosetti's music is somewhat light, leaning towards the stile galante. His orchestrations resemble Mozart's (without the emphasis on the clarinet).

But he also masterfully develops motifs in ways that remind me of Haydn. These are symphonies that have something to say -- and sometimes wittily.

Rosetti's Piano Concerto in B-flat major (one of four he wrote) more closely resembles those of Mozart. The solo part is challenging, but always melodic rather than just busy.

Natasa Velijkovic plays with a light touch that makes the outer movements sparkle. Her sensitive reading of the middle movement brings out all the charm of Rosetti's elegant melodies.

Thoroughly enjoyable.

Antonio Rosetti: Symphonies & Piano Concerto 
Symphony in C major [Murray A1], Symphony in E-flat major [Murray A29],  Piano Concerto in B major [Murray C4]
Natasa Velijkovic, piano 
Südwestdetsches Kammerorchester Pforzheim; Johannes Moesus, conductor
CPO 777 852-2