Here’s a deal! Though Robert Glenton and his Orchestra of the Golden Age already offer a stylish period-instrument budget-priced complete recording of Telemann’s Tafelmusik (Naxos), Pieter-Jan Belder and his ensemble Musica Amphion deliver an equally accomplished complete performance for even less! Both versions for the most part feature lively renderings of the more upbeat movements, though comparatively Belder is more sensitive to the delicacy of the slower, French-style sections–such as in the Loure of the Suite in E or the Flaterie of the Suite in B-flat major. Glenton at times brings added swing to the more moderate inner movements, particularly in the trios and quartets, though Belder needn’t offer any apologies for his consistently well-articulated pacing.
Joining Belder as members of Musica Amphion are a number of longstanding Baroque period-instrument “all-stars”. Former Musica Antiqua Köln members Wilbert Hazelzet (flute) and Jaap ter Linden (cello) re-emerge performing as expertly as ever; one of the earliest members of the Academy of Ancient Music, and more recently Octophorus–American bassoonist Danny Bond–also is in fine form; and it’s great as well to once again hear former Leonhardt and Kuijken consort cellist Richte van der Meer.
Brilliant’s sound is very good, with a slight but ever-present focus on the soloists. Budget productions typically skimp on the notes to cut costs, but not so here–Clemens Romijn’s full notes (in English only) are as informative as those included in far more expensive sets. Listeners who enjoy Baroque music though were previously reluctant to spring for one of Telemann’s more epic productions now have no excuse to hold back. Recommended!
