Nikolaus Harnoncourt - Symphonies Nos 39 40 & 41

On THE LAST SYMPHONIES, Nikolaus Harnoncourt explores his fascinating new interpretation of the composer's last three symphonies; that they are one whole work which he calls Mozart's 'Instrumental Oratorium.' Harnoncourt argues that, in terms of structure, the first movement of Symphony No. 39 is the Prelude of the 'Instrumental Oratorium,' while the last movement of Symphony No. 41 is the Finale. THE LAST SYMPHONIES: MOZART'S INSTRUMENTAL ORATORIUM was recorded for the first time with Harnoncourt's own ensemble Concentus Musicus Wien, which he founded in 1953.