Search - Antonio Vivaldi, Nicholas Kraemer, City of London Sinfonia :: Vivaldi: La Stravaganza, Vol. 2, Concertos for Violin and Orchestra, Op. 4 Nos. 7 - 12

Varied and Creative Concerti from Vivaldi

JohnL | Alexander, NC United States | 05/08/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Vivaldi wrote an incredible amount of works in his lifetime. He left aproximately 500 concertos, many of these for the violin. However, he also penned many fine concerti for various other instruments, including cello (see the 4 wonderful volumes on Naxos, receiving splendid reviews from other Amazon customers), as well as for flute, bassoon, and combinations of these instruments. Within the confines of this short (usually under 10 minutes) three-movement form, Vivaldi composed with a remarkable capacity of variety. This CD contains the second book, or set, of his 12 Concerti known as "La Stravaganza", published as his Opus 4. This 2nd volume picks up where the first left off, with capable soloist Andrew Watkinson performing wonderfully. He seems to relish the dazzling virtuoso passages, but also plays the beautiful slow movements (mostly marked 'Largo') with poetic grace. He is backed up nicely by the City of London Sinfonia, with the strings sounding tonally bright in a pleasing acoustic. You will not be disappointed with either volume of this complete set of "La Stravaganza". Contrary to popular belief, there is much, much more than the ever-so-popular "Four Seasons" from this remarkable Italian baroque composer. And as always, the price is quite nice on Naxos, the critically-acclaimed budget (quality) label."