Search - Handel, Christie, Les Arts Florissants :: Concerti Grossi Op 6

Ranging from good to great

D. Jack Elliot | Omaha, Nebraska | 08/24/2006

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Concerto no. 2 in F major and Concerto no. 10 in D minor are the best of this selection from the Op. 6. I think these two works (together, perhaps, with no. 7 in B flat) to deserve comparison with the Bach Brandenburg Concerti (which are of course the pinnacle of the concerto grosso genre). They are complex, sophisticated, and possessed of an impressive expressive range. This is very emotional music, true to the wont of the Baroque: look elsewhere for something quaint and decorative.



The other works here do not quite attain to the standard of nos. 2 and 10, but they are nevertheless thoroughly satisfying pieces and obviously the work of a great master. The performances here are generally lithe and effective, though perhaps just a touch lacking in emotional involvement every now and then. This last is only a very minor complaint, however; I heartily recommend this album."