Search - Antonio Vivaldi, Giovanni Antonini, Il Giardino Armonico :: Vivaldi: The Four Seasons

Spectacular

Jonathan J. Casey | the twin cities | 10/24/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is, above all, my favorite recording of "The Four Seasons." If you've heard that Il Giardino Armonico is a ground-breaking ensemble, the proof is in this CD. Enrico Onofri's violin solos are stunningly articulate and nuanced, and the small ensemble makes an unexpectedly big noise. The continuo is varied (bassoon, cello, theorbo, organ, harpsichord) which lends this rendition a deep texture not found in most recordings. My only complaint is that the viola "barking dog" in the slow movement of "Spring" is far too harsh. On the other hand, the opening of "Winter" is played in such an odd and spooky way that, once you hear it, you'll never be satisfied with the status quo again. This disc has been out-of-print for awhile. Ignore the cheesy cover, pick it up now ..., and have yourself a foot-stomping good time."

Unusual, excellent Vivaldi

new music guy | NY, NY United States | 04/04/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Given that this is one of the most popular works of classical music of all time, I'd heard Vivaldi's 4 Seasons so often that I had no interest in hearing them again. Ever. But when I got this disc as a gift and popped it in, I was pleasantly surprised. This recording, despite being played on period instruments, is not for baroque purists. The dynamic contrasts are incredible, but tend to be on the hacking side in the louder sections. The group freely moves back and forth between ponticello and tasto, and many of the tempi are absurdly fast or slow compared to your average performance. Many of the movements have little gimmicks, most of which are interesting, but unsuccessful, such as the "barking dog" in the slow movement of Spring, an accurate description from a reviewer below. Onofri's violin solos are technically excellent, though occasionally gritty and often rhythmically quirky... the end result is that I love this music again, a change for the better. For an introduction to Vivaldi or period instrument performances, stay away. For a 4 Seasons that will revitalize you and forever alter the way you conceive of the piece, this is an essential recording."

The REAL "Four Seasons"

H. McClelland | São Paulo, Brazil | 01/09/2007

(4 out of 5 stars)

"I couldn't believe that a professional pianist who specializes in contemporary music was recommending to me a version of Vivaldi's "Four Seasons." "What? I've heard over 50 different recordings of this piece, multiple times these last 4 decades! Yet another? What else can be done to this overplayed composition?" Because I trust her musical knowledge and taste, I ordered it. It is breathtaking and edgy, notes and phrases cut with a jagged edge of the bow that releases a new dynamic. THIS is what Vivaldi must have had in mind! You can hear and feel the birds and brooks as never before--not simpering suggestions of them. Il Giardino Armonico boldly leads us to a new Vivaldi."