The Original Brandenburg Concertos

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of the Italian Baroque with Giuseppe Torelli's "The Original Brandenburg Concertos," a captivating collection of concertos and sonatas that stand as true landmarks in the development of the concerto genre. Released in 2009 to commemorate the tercentenary of Torelli's death, this album offers a selection of his concertos composed for George Friedrich II, the Margrave of Brandenburg-Ansbach, nearly a quarter of a century before Bach's famous Brandenburg Concertos.

Giuseppe Torelli, a renowned composer and virtuoso string player, was instrumental in the evolution of the Baroque concerto and Concerto Grosso. His "Concerti Musicali" Op. 6, featured on this album, showcases his inventive and melodic genius, often overshadowed by his contemporaries. The album, expertly performed by Charivari Agréable under the direction of Kah-Ming Ng, brings these historic pieces to life with a variety of instrumentation, including oboes and recorders, adding depth and color to the performances.

Spanning over an hour, this album is a feast for lovers of Baroque music, offering a diverse range of tempos and moods. From the lively "Presto" and "Allegro" movements to the serene "Adagio" and "Largo" pieces, each track provides a unique listening experience. The inclusion of the "Sonata a 4 in A minor" further enriches the album, demonstrating Torelli's versatility and mastery of the Baroque style.

"The Original Brandenburg Concertos" is not just a tribute to a pioneering composer but also a celebration of the Baroque era's musical innovation. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast of Baroque music or a curious newcomer, this album promises an enriching and enjoyable experience.