Somis was a prolific teacher, whose pupils included prominent Italian and French composers like Gaetano Pugnani and Jean-Marie Leclair, who significantly influenced French music of their century.
Composition History
The Sonate da Camera Opus II were dedicated to Vittorio Amedeo, King of Sicily, Jerusalem, and Cyprus, and were published by Somis himself in Turin in 1723.
Critical Reception
Jean-Jacques Rousseau, the famous philosopher and composer, praised Somis in his Confessions, calling him one of the best musicians in all of Europe during his time.
Compositional Technique
The entire collection of twelve sonatas in Opus II is considered a cornerstone of violin literature due to its technically audacious and innovative development.
Composer Biography
Giovanni Battista Somis, a central figure in 18th-century Italian music, was sent to Rome by King Vittorio Amedeo II in 1703 to study with Arcangelo Corelli, a renowned violinist and composer.
Compositional Technique
Somis's Opus II sonatas are divided into two groups: the first six feature constant polyphonic writing and staccato in fast movements, while the latter six prioritize speed, fluidity, and a more monodic violin line.
Instruments
The violin used in this recording is a Don Nicola Amati, from the Bolognese school, dating between 1720 and 1730.
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