Locatelli: Flute Sonatas


Pietro Locatelli is mainly known for his extremely difficult pieces for the violin. During his life time this Italian Baroque composer also had quite a reputation as a virtuoso performer, mainly of his own compositions. However, he wrote some sets of sonatas for flute too of which there are fewer performances and recordings. The 12 virtuoso flute sonatas opus 2 are written in the demanding vein of the works for violin.





Yet the trio sonatas, for two flutes or violins and basso continuo opus 5, shed an entirely different light on this composer. Here Locatelli employs a rather easy style: a combination of some virtuosity and graceful melodies. Technical display for its own sake is avoided altogether. This way of musical painting can also be found in music by his contemporaries like Tartini and Geminiani.

Presented here is the complete works for flute by Locatelli in performances on period instruments. Soloist is Jed Wentz accompanied by Musica ad Rhenum. Jed Wentz is also the founder of this ensemble. It specialises in performing 17th- and 18th-centry music. Together they have established themselves well on the authentic performance stage. The second flautist in opus 5 is Marion Moonen.

Delightful and inspired performances by musicians who know what this music is about. Extensive documentation in the booklet.

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