Mozart wrote much music for wind ensembles in various combinations. It is acknowledged that the three most substantial and important works, indeed masterpieces, are the three Serenades: K361 in B flat ('for thirteen wind instruments', known as the 'Gran Partita'), K375 and K388. The two latter are scored for wind octet, the first with much of the spirit of 'The Marriage of Figaro' (written at the same time) and the second in more darkly passionate C minor mood.

There have been many recordings of the Serenades over the years but this is the first to use new scores prepared directly from Mozart's manuscripts, and therefore to be free from the innumerable changes made in all earlier editions. In other words, this is our first opportunity to hear the works as Mozart wrote them. The scores are newly published by Camden Music.

The disc also includes Mozart's three most famous overtures, scored for wind to satisfy the fashion of the time.