Corelli: Violin Sonatas, Op. 5
Corelli: Violin Sonatas, Op.5. Andrew Manze, violin; Richard Egarr, harpsichord. (Harmonia Mundi, 907298.99)
Corelli's 12 Baroque-era sonatas have been called arguably the finest and most influential set of its kind. Each of the first six has five movements, opening with a slow introduction to a very artful fugue. The second six, technically easier and therefore more accessible to less advanced players, are more familiar. Five are dance suites preceded by preludes; the final one, called "Follia," is the most famous and difficult, consisting of 24 variations on an eight-bar ground bass. Extremely inventive, they exploit every aspect of violin technique and build to a resounding rhythmic and sonic climax. Manze, surely one of the most brilliant and arresting personalities in his field, gives a spectacular, exciting performance, combining utmost virtuosity with an inquisitive intellect and a passionate heart. The fugal counterpoint is crystal clear, and he brings out mood, character, and expression with total emotional concentration, underlining contrasts with dynamics, tempo, tonal variety, and articulation. Choosing to play without a cello, he and longtime collaborator Richard Egarr give their imagination free rein in improvising cadenzas and cascades of melodic and harmonic embellishments. Manze's program notes are wonderful: scholarly and enlightening, punctuated by wit and humor.
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