Adrian Butterfield, the violinist on this recording, is the Musical Director of the Tilford Bach Society and Associate Director of the London Handel Festival.
Critical Reception
The contemporary popularity of Leclair's second book of sonatas is evident from its appearance in at least three editions, with sales boosted by his successful appearances at the Concerts spirituels in Paris.
Recording & Production
This album presents the first complete recording of Leclair's Book 2 sonatas, which, like his Book 1, has been somewhat neglected in favor of his later works.
Composer Biography
Jean-Marie Leclair, the composer, was born in Lyon, the son of a lacemaker, and also studied dancing and the violin.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Leclair's music, influenced by his time in Italy, aimed to fuse French and Italian styles, an aspiration known as 'les goûts réunis' during his era.
Composition History
Leclair's second book of sonatas was published in 1728, five years after his first, and was engraved by Louise Catherine Roussel, whom he married in 1730.
Compositional Technique
Leclair's second book of sonatas shows significant technical developments from his first, including extensive use of double-stopping, high positions, bariolage, and rapid staccato bowings.
You might also enjoy...
Leclair: Le tombeau
Yo-Yo Ma Plays Bach
J.S. Bach: Sonatas for Viola da Gamba & Harpsichord
Bach: Das Musikalische Opfer
Marais: La Gamme
Bach: 3 Sonatas for Viola da Gamba & Harpsichord
Leclair: Violin Sonatas, Op. 5 Nos. 9-12
Bach, J.S.: Sonatas for Viola Da Gambe and Harpsichord, Bwv 1027-1029
