Sammartini: Recorder Concerto & Sonatas

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the elegant and refined world of Giovanni Battista Sammartini with this exquisite collection of concertos and sonatas. Released in 2011 under the Brilliant Classics label, this album showcases the mastery of Sammartini, a pivotal figure in the transition from the Baroque to the Classical era. Spanning a duration of 1 hour and 9 minutes, the album features a diverse range of compositions that highlight the composer's versatility and innovation.

The album opens with the Concerto in F Major for Recorder and Strings, a piece that exemplifies Sammartini's ability to blend the delicate timbre of the recorder with the rich textures of string orchestration. The sonatas that follow, including works for recorder and basso continuo, harpsichord, and cello, offer a rich tapestry of musical expression. Each piece is meticulously crafted, showcasing Sammartini's skill in composition and his deep understanding of musical form and structure.

This album is a testament to Sammartini's enduring legacy, providing a comprehensive overview of his contributions to the Baroque and Classical genres. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this collection offers a captivating journey through the musical landscape of the 18th century. The performances are impeccable, bringing to life the intricate details and nuances of Sammartini's compositions.

1 jan 2011

2012 Brilliant Classics

2011 Brilliant Classics

About Giovanni Battista Sammartini

Giovanni Battista Sammartini, born in Milan around 1700, was a pivotal figure in the evolution of classical music, serving as a composer, violinist, organist, choirmaster, and teacher. His innovative approach to the symphony laid the groundwork for the Classical style that would later be perfected by giants like Joseph Haydn and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Sammartini's compositions, which span symphonies, concertos, sonatas, and masses, are marked by a galant style that reflects the ideals of the Enlightenment, blending elegance with a newfound seriousness and thematic development.

Throughout his career, Sammartini mentored notable figures such as Christoph Willibald Gluck and was highly respected by younger composers like Johann Christian Bach. His influence extended beyond his immediate circle, with echoes of his stylistic innovations detectable in the works of Haydn, despite the latter's denials. Sammartini's legacy is one of bridging the gap between the Baroque and Classical eras, making him an essential figure in the history of Western music.