Mozart (my practicaly thirst classical music mix)

[Romario]

I hope that in spite of the lots of time has passed, some of you will want to comment.

I started by listening to 4 different recordings of this piece. I think it will not be very important to name which ones. After fully listening to all four, I listened to the main pair in the multitrack and wrote out what I like and what not. The first thing that became apparent in the recording is a lot of double basses and cellos in comparison with any of the four references. Then, I think everyone who worked with this mix noticed that woodwinds sound a little louder than they should. And finally, I did not like the balance with the noticeable predominance of the piano over the orchestra. It was these three points that I tried to correct during the mixing. I hope I succeeded. Although the problem with the woodwind practically remained.

I didn’t do automation, although for the perfect balance at every moment could do a little magic. Since I did not make big changes to the balance of instruments, I thought that let the balance be on the conscience of the conductor, yet he understands this much more than I do.

Sorry for my English and hope you will comment.

I think you have identified the issues that are presented with this recording, however I think there is only one double bass in the ensemble (from the pictures available) which only makes the jumping bass more of an anomaly. I do agree the woodwinds do overwhelm at times as well. Getting a good mix between a well balanced ensemble and an accurate featured soloist is the real problem to solve here. There is also a bit of a ring in the upper mid-range of the piano complicating things some. I am not sure if it is the instrument or the mics. Maintaining a sense of place while supporting the dynamics of the written piece is also a challenge. I'd say you've done very nicely. I did opt for a bit of automation to enhance the dynamics of the ensemble against the soloist but I'm not sure I got it right. It was a fun challenge though.

Thanks for your feedback! Well, one more remark about automation is already talking about something). The sound of the piano seems to me formed by the instrument itself and may not be the most successful position of the microphones. I do not pretend to the truth.