Nikolaj Znaider, London Symphony Orchestra MOZART Violin Concertos 1, 2 & 3

This stylish and elegant modern-instrument recording rounds off Znaider’s cycle of Mozart’s complete violin concertos—the product of an audibly fruitful musical partnership with the LSO. A greatly slimmed-down orchestra plays with nimbleness and delicacy while Znaider—using his gorgeous-sounding “Ex-Kreisler” Guarneri violin (on which Elgar’s concerto was premiered)—gives these youthful works lightness and grace that melt the heart. The Third is the best-known work here and justifies its popularity with a performance of spirit and great charm.