Search - Georg Philipp Telemann, Nicholas Ward :: Telemann: Overture Suites / Changeante

Telemann orchestral works by a younger "Neville Marriner"

Frank T. Manheim | Fairfax VA | 03/16/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Nicholas Ward follows a special UK tradition of charismatic conductors who build reputations for themselves outside major musical organizations. Neville Marriner's Orchestra of St. Martin in the Fields (essentially a subway stop in London), became one of the most versatile and recorded ensembles in the world. Assuming leadership of the Northern Chamber Orchestra (Manchester), Ward is achieving an increasing reputation for lively and well-chosen recordings of music ranging in time from contemporary to Baroque. This latest recording on the inexpensive NAXOS label features two of Georg Philipp Telemann's "descriptive" suites for string orchestra, and Telemann's Suite in D. In "Les Nations anciennes et modernes", Ward's modern instrument ensemble captures the difference between the more ponderous "ancient" and racier "modern" German, Swedish and Danish musical styles. In the Danish "modern style" I almost detected something of the Baroque Danish character that Norwegian composer Edvard Grieg later emulated in his Holberg Suite. The last movement of Les Nations depicts "Les anciennes femmes", ancient ladies who whine about the behaviors of their times. Ward carries off this Telemann whimsy in fine, witty style. In the Suite in D horns and other winds display Telemann's melodic and harmonic twists, unexpected rhythms, and exceptional ear for instrumental sonorities. Good choice of music and fine performance."