The manuscripts for these concertos, with one exception, are preserved in the library of the Hesse Court in Darmstadt, suggesting they were likely written for Michael Böhm, the composer's woodwind virtuoso brother-in-law at the Court.
Recording & Production
Ensemble Cordevento, led by Erik Bosgraaf, plays on copies of historical instruments and has released a growing number of albums, including adaptations of Bach solo concertos and a virtuoso version of Vivaldi's Four Seasons.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Telemann was considered a master of the 'mixed' German style, incorporating French and Italian elements, and also drew inspiration from Polish folk music, which he called 'true barbaric beauty'.
Compositional Technique
Telemann developed a unique concerto style that emphasized close dialogue and a cosmopolitan mix of tastes, rather than soloistic display, imbuing ritornellos and solo episodes with rhythmic drive often derived from Polish folk music.
Performer Biography
Erik Bosgraaf, the recorder player and director, is considered one of the world's best recorder players, with a repertoire spanning from Vivaldi to contemporary music, and has had over 100 pieces composed for him.
Composer Biography
Georg Philipp Telemann, the composer, taught himself to play the recorder, violin, and zither before the age of 10 and continued practicing the recorder into his teens.
