Paul Fried’s latest CD release the ninth in a series of flute-centric recordings over the past several years, is devoted to concerti for the instrument by Mozart including the Concerto No. 1 in G Major, K. 313; the Concerto No. 2 in D Major, K. 314; and the Concerto for Flute & Harp K. 299 with principal harp of the New West Symphony, Maria Casale. All three concerti were composed in 1778 when Mozart was in his twenties and bubbling with youthful vigor and bright optimism. 

There is no mistaking Paul Fried’s virtuoso playing in the G Major and D Major solo concerti, which are first up on the disc. His tone is clean and bright throughout, with particularly satisfying cadenzas, his own, ramping up the excitement of both works. Without doubt the highlight of the CD is the performance by Fried and harpist Maria Casale of the popular Concerto for Flute and Harp in C Major, K. 299. Casale has performed with most of the major orchestras in the region including the Los Angeles Philharmonic and Hollywood Bowl Orchestra and is a powerful presence on the CD, excelling in clean technique and confident playing while also bringing sparkle and energy to the performance. Fried’s playing, as always, impeccable. Balance between flute, harp, and the Virtuosi is excellent, though the orchestra at times sounds a little distant. In all, a charming and lighthearted recording of Mozart masterpieces. The disk can be purchased at the artist’s web site,

Daniel Kepl | Performing Arts Review