Double Concerti For Winds & Strings (Rebel Ensemble)

Telemann (1681-1767) composed prolifically (> 3,000 pieces, 50 concertos) and in his time was considered a leading German composer. Bach and Handel studied his works. In the 1710s he became one of the creators of the German-mixed style, amalgamating German, French, Italian and Polish styles. His music is characterized by complex counterpoint (melodies played against one another) and complex harmonies. This CD’s concerti range from the early 2 double-violin concertos, to the later E minor concerto for recorder and traverso, (a transverse flute), TWV 52e , one of his best known and frequently recorded concertos. Pitting the recorder against the traverso, he contrasted an old instrument with a newly emerging one. The work contains beautiful melodies and virtuoso instrumental ensemble effects. T’s music is that of a restless, vivacious mind, not as deep as Bach’s or as splendid as Handel’s, but quite enjoyable nonetheless. The Concerto in D major for Trumpet, Violin & Strings, TWV 53:D5, for example, displays in its fast mvmts T’s upbeat excitement, and in the Adagio, his resolute but still hopeful melancholy.