History tends to favour the creator, though is not always kind to the muse. Mozart and the Weber Sisters is a refreshing change in that it honours both. Presenting a strong, insightful narrative of love, fervour and disappointment, this release paints fascinating musical portraits not only of an infatuated Mozart, but also of the talented women who inspired him – the sisters Aloysia, Josepha and Constanze Weber. 

Mozart would eventually marry Constanze, but his first love was the eldest, Aloysia. She and Josepha had illustrious careers as opera singers, with Mozart writing some of his most daring and inspired music for them. The luscious Vorrei spiegarvi, oh Dio!, capitalised on Aloysia’s impeccably soft, stratospheric cantabile, while the fiery Der Hölle Rache was perfect for Josepha, the original Queen of the Night. 

The vocal prowess of these impressive women is channelled in Sabine Devieilhe, a formidable artistic force who rises to the technical challenges of this wide-ranging programme. There are numerous highlights, but an obvious one is Mozart’s insertion aria to Glück’s Alceste, Popoli di Tessaglia. Devieilhe is magnificent, not least for the infamous top G – one of Aloysia’s unique vocal gifts. Ensemble Pygmalion’s sound is gorgeous, and Raphaël Pichon’s direction is supreme, not just musically, but also curating the programme. A bonus addition makes for a delightfully profane end to this very special album.