Mendelssohn: Symphonies Nos. 1-5 (Live)

Joined by a Chamber Orchestra of Europe that’s swift of foot, light of spirit and virtuoso to the last player, Nézet-Séguin proves an ideal guide to Mendelssohn’s five symphonies. The First bounds along without a care, while the vocal Second is given the weight it needs—and the solo singing is first-rate. The Third (Scottish) has plenty of mystery and atmosphere, the charming Fourth (Italian) is bathed in Mediterranean sunlight, and the Fifth (Reformation) has gravitas and nobility. A set of the Mendelssohns for a new generation.