Mozart's Requiem- Best recording on CD

I've heard a lot (most) of them. I sing in a professional choir. This makes me very picky. My choice is Philips# 411 420-2 - Peter Schreier conducting Leipzig Radio Chorus and Dresden State Orchestra. Best balance between chorus and orchestra I've heard. Sounds very natural like you are sitting in the hall. Mozart was German, so you hear the true German pronounced latin. Soloist all great: Margaret Price (Soprano); Trudeliese Schmitdt (Mezzo); Francisco Araiza (Tenor); Theo Adam (Bass)

PS: The Peter Scheier recording is a Gramaphone Magazine "Desert Island Choice". Which means if you were stranded on a desert island, could only have one CD, and never be able to get another one, this one would be a good choice.

The Scheier and the Gardiner mentioned are also the recommended recordings in the National Public Radio Performance Today Basic Record Library. Since the Scheier is modern instruments and the Gardiner original instruments, get them both !!! The Scheier is from 1983 and since it is still currently in print sais something, considering all the recordings that have been made.

It is also important to remember that Mozart did not "write" much of the Requiem, just a few sections and sketches for the rest. Which version then becomes an important consideration.

All the above mentioned, and most recordings use the Sussmayr edition..........Hogwood uses Maunder edition, and Norrington uses Druce edition......for those who like Mozart cantatas you must own Exultate Jubilate and other assorted works on Oiseau-Lyre label 411 832-2 Hogwood/Emma Kirkby/Westminster boys choir, demonstration class sound