The Scottish Chamber Orchestra continues their hugely successful series of Mozart recordings, following on from Mozart Symphonies 38-41. Austrian-born violinist Alexander Janiczek directs the Orchestra in a fine performance of the rarely recorded ‘Colloredo’ Serenade and Divertimento K.251.

Originally released in 2008, ‘Mozart: ‘Colloredo’ Serenade K. 203 & Divertimento K. 251’ has been re-issued as part of Linn’s ECHO series which offers a second chance to enjoy the best of the label’s award-winning catalogue.

The ‘Colloredo’ Serenade, written for Hieronymous, Count von Colloredo, who was elected Prince-Archbishop of Salzburg in 1772, shows the eighteen-year-old Mozart writing in an easy, informal style, but showing great originality.

The Divertimento K.251, in the same key as the Serenade and similarly designed for summer entertainment, is full of spirited, catchy themes and dance music. It contains some delightful surprises!

The Orchestra uses a stylish combination of modern instruments (except for natural trumpets), and period influences such as selective vibrato that results in clear textures and an exciting, entertaining performance in the natural acoustic of Greyfriars Kirk, Edinburgh.

The SCO’s previous Mozart recordings have been critically acclaimed; ‘Mozart Wind Concertos’ consistently received four and five star reviews and BBC Music Magazine named “Mozart Requiem” a ‘Benchmark Recording’ in January 2007 whilst ‘Mozart Symphonies 38-41’ won BBC ‘Disc of the Year’ in 2010.

Having previously led the orchestra Alexander Janiczek has recorded five albums as director and soloist in partnership with the SCO; four superb recordings of Mozart and ‘Weber: Wind Concertos’, which was named ‘Recording of the Month’ by MusicWeb International.

2014 is the Scottish Chamber Orchestra’s fortieth anniversary year; the orchestra is internationally recognised as one of the finest chamber orchestras in the world with a multi award-winning catalogue of recordings under Robin Ticciati, Sir Charles Mackerras, Alexander Janiczek and Joseph Swensen.