JOHANN STAMITZ (1717-1757): Symphonies, Op. 3, Nos. 1 and 3-6 (Wolf #s G2, G3, Eb3, A2 and F2).

Description: Johann Stamitz was one of the pioneering figures in symphonic music before the emergence of Haydn. His Op. 3 symphonies, though not composed as a set, showcase why Stamitz was held in such high regard and was so influential: outer movements fizz with energy, and contain virtuosic string writing with frequent dynamic contrasts, while slow movements are intricate and refined. Musica Viva Moscow Chamber Orchestra; Alexander Rudin.