Vivaldi's Cello

Lovely Vivaldi pieces played with passion, some very recognizable as classics. Some intended for cello, some transcribed from violin. Played on period instruments (with the Amsterdam Baroque Orchestra, after all), so plenty of harpsichord throughout. (Roman numerals indicate the movement; there are several multi-movement pieces.) Pieces you’ve heard before: tracks 3, 4, probably 7, possibly 1. I really liked 17, though all are good.

1. (3:22) I. Allegro: wandering and tempestuous
2. (2:31) II. Largo: sad, stately, tremulous
3. (3:11) III. Allegro: very recognizable; unexpected rhythms, dramatic
4. *(1:50) SUPER recognizable--“that fancy party song”; Largo from Four Seasons
5. (3:29) I. Allegro: understated, playful, flirts with minor key
6. (2:19) II. Largo: lots of harpsichord and long chords
7. *(3:36) III. Allegro: also recognizable; lovely, dancing, halting rhythm
8. (2:56) gentle, flowing, w/ oboe n’ bassoon
9. (5:20) I. Allegro: w/ organ n’ lute, heavy tempo with light wanderings over
10. (2:29) II. Largo: quiet and precious
11. (3:10) III. Allegro: minor and stormy
12. (2:54) “look at the pretty wine country!”
13. *(4:15) I. Allegro non molto: warm but apprehensive
14. (2:58) II. Adagio: quiet, bitter and sweet
15. (3:00) III. Allegro ma non molto: decisive, energized
16. (5:02) oboe and organ, soft, “we love everyone!”
17. *(2:28) bouncy, 2 cellos, very pretty and warm.
18. (10:18) quiet, serene, warm, poignant
19. (2:26) soft, mournful; w/ lute

-Reviewed by mandy (la chanteuse)