Telemann: Complete Sonatas for Recorder & Basso Continuo

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Baroque music with Georg Philipp Telemann's "Complete Sonatas for Recorder & Basso Continuo." This exquisite album, released in 2014 under the OUR Recordings label, showcases the mastery of Telemann, a composer whose prowess with the recorder is unparalleled in music history. The album features a collection of sonatas that are staples in the repertoire of both professional and amateur recorder players, highlighting Telemann's inventive genius and his refusal to rely on conventional formulas.

The album spans a diverse range of moods and tempos, from the lively "Vivace" movements to the serene "Largo" and "Adagio" sections. Each sonata is a testament to Telemann's ability to craft beautiful melodies, incorporate rhythmic elements inspired by traditional music, and showcase virtuosic techniques for both the recorder and basso continuo. The sonatas included are from two of Telemann's notable collections: "Der getreue Music-Meister" and "Essercizii musici," as well as other lesser-known but equally captivating pieces.

This recording brings together the talents of Anthony Newman, renowned as the “High Priest of Bach,” and Michala Petri, celebrated as the “First Lady of the Recorder.” Their collaboration, after years of performing together in concert, results in a performance that is both historically significant and musically profound. The album's 44-minute duration is filled with Telemann's timeless compositions, making it a treasure trove for classical music enthusiasts and recorder aficionados alike.

Georg Philipp Telemann, born in Magdeburg in 1681, stands as one of the most prolific composers in music history, with over 3,000 surviving works to his name. A true polymath of the Baroque era, Telemann was a multi-instrumentalist and a master of various musical styles and genres. His compositions span operas, oratorios, cantatas, concertos, and chamber music, reflecting his deep understanding and appreciation of both sacred and secular music.

Telemann's influence was immense, and he was held in high regard by his contemporaries, including Johann Sebastian Bach and George Frideric Handel. Bach, in fact, named his son Carl Philipp Emanuel after Telemann, a testament to the esteem in which he held his friend. Telemann's music is renowned for its incorporation of diverse national styles, a testament to his cosmopolitan outlook and musical curiosity.

Self-taught in music, Telemann's journey was one of passion and dedication. He served as a Kapellmeister, Kantor, and director of musical societies in various courts and cities, leaving an indelible mark on the musical landscape of his time. His legacy endures, celebrated for its versatility, innovation, and sheer volume, making Telemann a pivotal figure in the transition from the Baroque to the Classical period.