Leclair: Violin Concertos, Vol. 1

Featuring

Adrian Butterfield
London Handel Players
Jean-Marie Leclair

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Interpretation

The performers on this recording added an extra second violinist to the tuttis to ensure balance, as the soloist was expected to play in these sections.

Composer Biography

Leclair, the composer, was murdered at his home in Paris in 1764, with suspicion falling on his nephew, Guillaume-François Vial, among others.

Interpretation

For the continuo section, the performers chose to use an organ and theorbo, finding this combination provided an ideal variety for these works.

Composer Biography

Jean-Marie Leclair, the composer, was born in Lyon in 1697 and initially trained as a lacemaker, dancer, and violinist.

Compositional Technique

Leclair, the composer, often uses a harmonic device of switching between minor and tonic major keys, or vice versa, in his sonata movements and concertos.

Historical Context

In 18th-century France, the violin was often considered suitable only for 'country fiddling' and orchestral duties, with the viol being preferred for private settings.

Performer Biography

Adrian Butterfield, the solo violinist and director, is the Musical Director of the Tilford Bach Festival and was Associate Director of the London Handel Festival for 25 years.