Mozart’s four flute quartets date from the 1770s and 1780s. Those in D (K285) and G (K285a) are probably products of a Mannheim commission, while the C major (K285b) and A major (K298) Quartets belong to the early to mid-1780s when Mozart was in Vienna.

Mozart’s flute quartets are central to the classical flute repertoire. The fact that Mozart held the instrument in rather low regard did not stop him from writing some of his loveliest music for it. The composer’s characteristic charm, wit, beauty and elegance are in evidence throughout.

The present recording with Barthold Kuijken dates March 1982 and is regarded as one the most beautiful interpretations of these works.