Search - Johannes Schenck, Les Voix Humaines :: Schenk: The Nymphs of the Rhine, Vol. 2

Naxos's bargain-priced, first volume of Johannes Schenck's The Nymphs of the Rhine gave us an introduction to this illusive baroque composer's musical talents. This disc finishes the Nymphs cycle, with equally stunning results. These 12 sonatas for two violas da Gamba are some of the most original and esoteric works you could ever ask for--incredibly brief, but haunting duet suites filled with gorgeous lyricism and counterpoint, and bearing the influence of German, Italian, and French composing techniques. Schenck (1660-c. 1712) may have been a Dutch court composer, but it sounds as though he heard his share of Marais; just like the better-known French composer, he showcases the singing quality and tonal range of the da Gamba with incredible effectiveness. Susie Napper and Margaret Little, members of Les Voix Humaines, deliver stirring performances on these last six sonatas. This is soulful, goose-bump inducing music and a must-have for adventurous baroque lovers. --Jason Verlinde