Masters Portrait - Mozart & Haydn - This album features some of the most engaging works by both composers. Lead by Hadyn's last symphony, his Symphony No. 104 in D Major, this album proceeds to create an uplifting and positive spirit. The Mozart tracks included here are the famous 2nd movement from his Piano Concerto 21 in C Major (you will recognize this theme). The third movement of the concerto is also featured.

Next is Mozart's A Musical Joke which was a piece wherein Mozart made sly fun of the music of the day. As time passed, the joke lost its satirical vein but has stayed in the repertoire because of its overall fun, pleasant atmosphere.

The final Mozart piece included on this album is his charming three movement Sinfonia Concertante in E-flat major, K. 364. This piece creates a very light and playful mood.

Haydn and Mozart actually knew each other. They met in Vienna and kept in touch throughout their lives. In fact, even though Haydn was 20 years Mozart's senior, the two were good friends. There is evidence that they would occasionally play chamber music together among friends and saw each other many times socially. Hadyn also was something of a mentor to Mozart. Because Mozart died so young (at 35), Haydn actually outlived him by 8 years.