With this second CD Musica Alta Ripa continues its series of Telemann Overtures, Sonatas, and Concertos for MDG. As in Volume 1 (type Q7828 in Search Reviews) the group offers an impressive variety of works demonstrating the composer’s incomparable versatility and keen grasp of international style. For instance, the Concerto in F major is scored for the rather unorthodox combination of recorder and bassoon soloists and is structurally more similar to a conventional trio sonata, with a four-movement slow-fast-slow-fast sequence instead of the usual three-movement concerto order. This allows Telemann room for additional thematic diversity that heightens the soloists’ evocative, often humorous dialogue.
The two brief sonatas are equally well crafted, sporting vivacious Allegros (especially the first in the D major cello sonata), though all of the slower movements at times are cumbersome and overly somber. Like most of the many overtures Telemann composed, the concluding one in B minor stylistically owes everything to the French. Violin soloist Anne Rohrig and the ensemble deliver spirited performances throughout, though the fourth-movement Rejouissance (rejoicing) and eighth-movement Rodomontade (to pompously boast) are especially animated. MDG’s audiophile sound is as clear and richly detailed as heard on Musica Alta Ripa’s previous Telemann outing, and all who acquired that issue are certain to find plenty to enjoy here as well.
