Spirited performances of Giuseppe Tartini Violin Concertos and Sonatas

Violinist Laura Marzadori knows Italian music. Her previous releases feature works by Ottorino Respighi, Ernnano Wolf-Ferrari, and Leone Sinigaglia. This album focuses on Giuseppe Tartini, one of the most important figures in the development of violin technique.

The four works Marzadori perform are all demanding. What makes this program refreshingly different is that they're unusual parts of Tartini's catalog.

The two violin concertos were prepared from unpublished manuscripts and receive their recording debuts here.

The Sonatas a Quattro presage the development of the string quartet. Tartini writes for cellos, violas, and two sections of violins -- no basso continuo.

Marzadori is an exceptional performer. Her playing positively sparkles at times. Her interpretations are emotive and energetic. And that energy is matched by the Nuova Orchestra da Camera "Ferruccio Busoni." The ensemble has a resonant sound that nevertheless seems open. They perform with modern instruments, which bothers me not a bit.

Authentic performance practices and historically accurate instruments are important for understanding the music in context. But that's not what Marzadori and "Ferrucio Busoni" chamber orchestra is after. Rather, I think the goal is to celebrate Tartini's inventiveness and complete mastery of the violin.

And if that was the goal, then I believe they succeeded. These spirited performances have an immediate appeal that any listener should appreciate. If you only know Tartini through the "Devil's Trill," you need to hear this music.

Giuseppe Tartini: Violin Concertos and Sonatas
Laura Marzadori, violin; Muova Orchestra da Camera "Ferruccio Busoni"
Massimo Belli, conductor
Brilliant Classics 95769