Caldara: Cello Sonatas

Immerse yourself in the refined elegance of the early 18th-century Viennese court with Antonio Caldara's "Cello Sonatas." This album, released by Rivoalto - Newton Classics, presents a selection of sonatas from Caldara's collection of sixteen, composed just five years before the renowned cello sonatas of Antonio Vivaldi. These sonatas, recorded in 2012, offer a substantial contribution to the late Baroque repertoire of solo cello music.

The album features a diverse range of sonatas, each showcasing Caldara's mastery of the genre. From the dramatic opening of Sonata No. 10 in E Minor to the lively Allegro e spiritoso of Sonata No. 11 in G Minor, each piece is a testament to Caldara's compositional skill and his ability to evoke a variety of moods and atmospheres. The sonatas are performed with precision and sensitivity, bringing out the nuances of Caldara's writing and providing a fresh perspective on his music.

With a duration of 56 minutes, this album is a perfect introduction to Caldara's cello sonatas for both newcomers and seasoned enthusiasts. The sonatas are performed with a sense of historical awareness, using instruments and techniques appropriate to the period, and providing a vivid sense of the music's original context. Whether you're a fan of Baroque music or simply looking to expand your musical horizons, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.

Antonio Caldara, born around 1670 in Venice, was a prolific and versatile Italian Baroque composer whose musical journey took him across Europe, leaving an indelible mark on the classical music landscape. With over 70 operas and 30 oratorios to his credit, Caldara's compositions reflect his extensive travels and collaborations with notable librettists like Pietro Metastasio. His unique approach to incorporating choral forces in his operas set him apart from his contemporaries. Caldara's musical prowess earned him favor with the Habsburg dynasty, making him a celebrated figure in the European music scene. His works, ranging from dramatic oratorios to intricate motets, continue to captivate audiences with their rich emotional depth and technical brilliance. Whether exploring his vocal masterpieces or instrumental compositions, delving into Antonio Caldara's music is an immersive experience that transports you to the opulent courts and sacred spaces of the Baroque era.