CLASSICAL: NEW RELEASES

Mozart Songs

Joan Rodgers/John Mark Ainsley (Hyperion)

This marvellous compilation offers no fewer than 25 Mozart songs which genuinely redress this grossly neglected aspect of his output. Shared between soprano Joan Rodgers and tenor John Mark Ainsley, all the lieder come over stylishly enunciated and phrased. Add the limpid accompaniment of Roger Vignoles for a disc which offers rich rewards. HHHHH

Zemlinsky Quartets No 1 & 2

Artis Quartett Wien (Nimbus)

Composed at the turn of the last century, these two quartets by the Viennese master are revelatory. The second, in particular, is a huge, questing work, cast on an epic scale in six movements. By turns aggressive, lyrical, impassioned and serene, these players have the measure of these pieces in their blood, plus the glittering technique to match. HHHHH