Search - Avison-Scarlatti, Marriner :: 12 Concerti Grossi

Excellent

Sean M. Kelly | Portland, Oregon United States | 04/22/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"While not as well known as Domenico Scarlatti, for whom he created these pieces, the works of Avison (1709-70, born Newcastle-upon-Tyne) certainly warrant closer inspection, and this fine set from Phillips is the way to do just that.Avison certainly did an ingenious job in taking the feel of Scarlatti's harpsichord and transposing it to be played by small chamber groups. The results are wonderful, creating a pure Baroque mood complete with trills and all the ususal brandishments one would expect. While at times dark, the works nevertheless are enticing, allowing the listener to revel in its beauty and majesty. To this end, the ASMF does a great job, infusing the disc with their unique sense of grace and excellence, allowing soloist Iona Brown to explore the possibilities of soloing in a purely Baroque sense. Her style is perfecty suited for these recordings, as is the ASMF, who not only recorded these pieces first, but the best, as well. An excellent bargain for Phillips' usual suprelative quality mid-priced 2 cd sets. Well worth searching out."

A rich, unusual delight

Robert J. Cruce | Muskogee, OK United States | 09/23/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Since there are many classical music lovers who have yet to take the plunge with the many wonderful recordings of the Scarlatti harpsichord pieces, it could be doubly hard to lure them to this recording. But if you have been wanting depth in music from this period, and already know all the first drawer works by the big names in Baroque music, you need to hear this. These are absorbing, at times dark works with a kind of burnished elegance you would find most enticing. There are no distractions here. No drum thwacks, shrill reeds or blasting trumpets. Just a wonderful string orchestra (how could it be otherwise with this splendid group and conductor?)totally committed to the music. This is out-of-the way repertoire, but a treasure for discerning collectors. Very likely you will find you have made an astonishing new discovery."