We distinguish the following
Work: A composition created by a Composer (e.g., Mozart’s Divertimento No. 2 in D major).
Recording: When Artists (such as conductors, ensembles, and soloists) perform a work, it is captured as a recording.
Album: Recordings are usually published as part of an album, which can feature multiple recordings of different works.
Why Albums and Recordings are Different
The same recording of a work can appear on different albums.
For example, this recording of Mozart's Divertimento No. 2 in D major from 1986 is featured on two different albums: once on this album collecting different concerti and divertimenti, and once on this compilation album celebrating Mozart's 225 year anniversary.
This is why IDAGIO distinguishes between albums and recordings—one recording can be featured on multiple albums across various themes or collections.