This performance by violist Patricia McCarty of Telemann's Twelve Fantasias, originally for violin, is the first recording of these works on viola.
CD Reviews
Wonderful music, wonderful performance
G. Kaplan | 05/12/2007
(5 out of 5 stars)
"The 12 fantasias for solo violin written by Telemann
are profound examples of musical miniatures: each of them
consists of 3-4 movements concentrated in 5-7 minutes.
We have here all the best of Telemann: melodies of genial simplicity, smart counterpoint executed by a solo instrument, energetic dance-like movements. The transformation into a "modern" viola by McCarthy is excellent. The warm
and exact sound of the instrument fits perfectly for this gem of baroque music. Wonderful!"
One of my "desert island" discs
anonymous | 04/12/2009
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Ms. McCarty does a beautiful job on this disc, which rapidly became one of my all-time favorite CDs, the sort I would want to have with me if stranded on a desert island.
Telemann - even more than Bach, I'd submit - had a real gift for writing simple yet fully realized pieces for unaccompanied mono- and duo-phonic instruments. His solo fantasias for flute are amazing pieces of compositional perfection, as are these 12 pieces for violin.
I happen to prefer the dark warmth of a viola to the sound of a violin, so the combination of a great violist and these marvelous transcriptions makes for a truly memorable recording.
I've just realized Ms. McCarty has also recorded Bach's cello suites, which are among my favorite pieces of music, so I'll be ordering a copy of that recording ASAP!
"
A viola treasure
D. Pankratz | Chicago, IL USA | 12/18/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I have purchased many recordings that feature viola, and this is one of my favorite. I never get tired of listening to to this combination--Telemann and Patricia McCarty performing his music beautifully.
"
Excellent CD--must have for violists!
G. Rehman | 01/06/2010
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Patricia McCarty plays these lovely solo pieces on a modern viola: while originally composed for violin, this probably comes closer to the sonority of Baroque violin. I think these are some of Telemann's most engaging compositions, and never tired of hearing them. All will appreciate her technically outstanding performance, impeccable musicianship, and the fine quality of recording."
Track Listings (12) - Disc #1