Trio sonatas, like those by Caldara on this album, were a popular and modern form of instrumental composition in the late 17th century, with nine out of twelve instrumental prints in Italy in 1693 being trio sonata collections.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Although Caldara is primarily known as a brilliant composer of vocal music, he chose an instrumental form for his first printed publications, demonstrating his expertise in string instruments.
Composer Biography
Antonio Caldara, the composer, came from a Venetian family of musicians, and the unique sound of his hometown significantly influenced his musical style.
Recording & Production
The musicians on this recording, though not a fixed ensemble, share a common artistic background and training from the Schola Cantorum Basiliensis, which influences their ensemble playing.
Performer Biography
Amandine Beyer and Leila Schayegh, the violinists on this recording, both initially trained on modern violin before specializing in historical instruments at the Schola Cantorum Basiliensis, where they now teach.
Composition History
Caldara's Opus 1, a collection of trio sonatas published in 1693, marked his entry onto the international stage as a composer.
Compositional Technique
Caldara's Opus 1 trio sonatas often treat the violoncello part idiomatically, departing from the bass line for concertante passages, especially in fast movements, effectively turning the trio into a 'quadro'.
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