Caldara: Trio Sonatas

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Baroque music with Antonio Caldara's "Caldara: Trio Sonatas," a captivating collection of instrumental works that showcase the composer's mastery of the trio sonata form. Released on Glossa in 2015, this album features a selection of sonatas from Caldara's Op. 1 and Op. 2, offering a delightful blend of contrasting movements and dance-inspired pieces.

Antonio Caldara, primarily renowned for his vocal compositions, made significant contributions to the early development of the trio sonata. His Op. 1 Trio Sonatas, published in 1693, are notable for their alternating fast and slow movements, while the Op. 2 set, released in 1699, incorporates a variety of dance forms. This album presents a carefully curated selection of these works, performed by an ensemble of distinguished musicians.

The album features the exquisite violin playing of Amandine Beyer and Leila Schayegh, both former students of the Schola Cantorum, Basel. They are joined by Jonathan Pesek on cello, Jörg-Andreas Bötticher on harpsichord and organ, and Matthias Spaeter on liuto attiorbato. Together, they bring to life the intricate and expressive compositions of Caldara, recorded in the acoustically superb setting of St. Gerold in Vorarlberg, Austria.

With a total playing time of approximately 72 minutes, this album offers a comprehensive exploration of Caldara's trio sonatas. The performances are marked by their stylish and perceptive interpretations, providing a fresh perspective on these historical works. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of Baroque music or a newcomer to the genre, "Caldara: Trio Sonatas" promises an enriching and enjoyable listening experience.