Toronto’s Tafelmusik, led by British violinist Rachel Podger, wholeheartedly embrace the ‘Sturm und Drang’ of Haydn’s middle period symphonies. Their razor-sharp ensemble and deep musicality make these live recordings thoroughly satisfying.
Sensational Haydn from Rachel Podger and Tafelmusik Read More »
It’s been decades since a comprehensive history of the horn has been published in English, suitable for both the scholar and the performer. The Horn, by Renato Meucci and Gabriele Rocchetti, rises to the challenge. The authors unearth much new information and paint a clear picture of the instrument’s rich history.
A Monumental New Study of the Horn Read More »
‘I very rarely think a program needs projections, because the music speaks for itself,’ says Camilla Tassi, a visual projections designer who works with some of the most celebrated ensembles on the American early-music scene. ‘But we have to ask ourselves: Who is this performance for? What are we trying to convey?’
Concert Projections as ‘Visual Continuo’ Read More »
A new, complete recording of Alessandro Stradella’s 1673 biblical oratorio ‘Ester’ looks deeper than its Italian Counter-Reformation inspiration and goes back to the story’s Jewish roots, centered on themes of resistance and survival owing to one woman’s courage. Camerata Grimani and its strong Italian and American cast perform with rhetorical flair and, refreshingly, a Mediterranean sense of expression.
Jewish Heroism, Italian Oratorio Read More »
Italian composer and Franciscan friar Lodovico Viadana, born c. 1560 near Mantua, was a pioneer in the new expressive monody in church music. The Viadana Collective makes its stunning recording debut with music from their namesake’s ‘Centum sacri concentus ab una voce sola,’ codifying the sound of solo voices with instrumental accompaniment.
Going Solo with Viadana Read More »
