Search - Brett Polegato, Georg Philipp Telemann, George Frederick Handel :: Baroque Delights

Perfect for Someone New to Classical Music

J Scott Morrison | Middlebury VT, USA | 02/28/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Tafelmusik, Canada's foremost ensemble specializing in baroque music, is celebrating its 25th anniversary with this release of highlights from some of their previous CDs. Founded in 1979, its direction was taken over in 1981 by the redoubtable Jeanne Lamon who remains its director, and she conducts all these selections. This CD would certainly serve as a more than adequate introduction both to the work of Tafelmusik and to music from the Baroque Era. The playlist consists of selections from larger works. For instance, there are two soprano arias from Handel operas sung to perfection by Karina Gauvin. The newly emerging Canadian contralto Marie-Nicole Lemieux sings Domenico Scarlatti's 'Salve Regina' and an aria from Vivaldi's 'Stabat Mater.' There are two selections (Air for the G String and Gavottes I & II) from Bach's Third Orchestral Suite. Proof of Bach's ability to write 'light' music is contained in the charming performances of two arias and the trio from his 'Coffee Cantata.' John Abberger, oboist, plays two movements from Benedetto Marcello's Oboe Concerto in D Minor. And there is much more, as listed above.The playing here is delectable. I am a long-time admirer of Tafelmusik's work and feel that each of these selections shows them at their best. This CD would make a wonderful gift for a friend who is coming to baroque music for the first time. It is hard to imagine anyone disliking it.Scott Morrison"