Volume 4 of Peter Donohoes acclaimed survey of Mozarts Piano Sonatas on SOMM Recordings focuses on the composers adoption of the newly emerging pianoforte and his bold exploitation of its more sophisticated voicing. Sonatas Nos.1 in C major (K279) and 5 in G major (K283) were composed as a set of six difficult sonatas by the 18-year-old prodigy in 1774. Containing hints of the mature genius to come, the Scarlatti-accented outer movements of the First Sonata frame a seductively perfumed, sensuously realised central passage of precocious sophistication. Sonata No.5 moves from grace to complexity to echo CPE Bach before ending in a breathless, left-hand accented contradanse celebrating the growing freedom and fluidity of Mozarts piano writing. More emotionally conflicted, Sonata No.12 in F major (K332) was composed in the wake of Mozarts failed search for employment in Paris, his mothers death and a moment of spiritual despair. Two miniatures complete the volume: the mysterious and engrossing late Minuet in D major (K355) and the austere and searching Allegro in G minor (K312). Christopher Morley returns as author of the series authoritative and illuminating booklet notes.