The Aradia Ensemble, based in Toronto, specializes in orchestral, operatic, and chamber music played on original instruments, and has made 21 recordings for Naxos.
Compositional Technique
The symphonies combine French overture and Italian sinfonia styles, featuring tuneful melodies and lively rhythms.
Composer Biography
Boyce studied organ with Maurice Greene, to whom he was apprenticed, and may have had lessons from Johann Christian Pepusch, a noted theorist and co-founder of the Academy of Ancient Music.
Composition History
Boyce's Eight Symphonies, Op. 2, were published in 1760 and were compiled from instrumental movements of his earlier odes and theatrical works.
Composer Biography
William Boyce, an English composer, is best known for his church music and the Eight Symphonies, Op. 2, featured on this album.
Performer Biography
Kevin Mallon, the director of the Aradia Ensemble, has an impressive background including conducting studies with John Eliot Gardiner and training at Chetham's School of Music.
Recording & Production
This recording is dedicated to the memory of bassoonist James Bolyard, whose untimely death occurred on June 4, 2004, and was his last with the Aradia Ensemble.
