It’s a nearly impossible task. Picking a favorite, a top 5, or a top 100 out of Mozart's immense catalog of music is no small feat, and it’s not one that any single person could do by themself. That’s why we turned to all WFMT hosts, producers, staff, and more to weigh in on their best-loved Mozart pieces and recordings. We hope you’ll enjoy our ranking of Mozart’s top 10 works.
WFMT music director Oliver Camacho says:
When looking for a great recording of the Mass in C minor, it’s all about the Soprano I soloist who sings the Kyrie and Et incarnatus est. Luckily there are many outstanding recordings to choose from. One of the recordings I recommend is Barbara Bonney with Claudio Abbado and the Berlin Philharmonic for purity of tone and immaculate intonation.
Weston Williams, WFMT production assistant, says:
The Harnoncourt Requiem recording is a favorite!
WFMT music director Oliver Camacho says:
It is nearly impossible to beat the cast assembled for the Decca recording of Figaro conducted by Georg Solti. Kiri Te Kanawa, a luscious and tragic Countess at the peak of her expressive powers; Lucia Popp with perfect intonation and sparkle in her voice as Susanna; Frederica von Stade (has there ever been a more charming Cherubino?); Samuel Ramey — another iconic American singer with an unmistakable tone — as Figaro; and Thomas Allen as an erudite, determined Count. There are more stylish and briskly paced sets that have come out since its 1982 release, but none with such a deep roster of greats.
Enjoy the full playlist!
Responses have been edited for length and clarity.
