Vivaldi: Concerti, Op. 8

Featuring

Pavlo Beznosiuk
Avison Ensemble
Antonio Vivaldi

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Compositional Technique

Vivaldi's concertos typically use a three-movement plan of fast-slow-fast, with fast movements often employing 'ritornello form' where the orchestra repeatedly plays the main thematic material.

Critical Reception

The British musicologist John Hawkins wrote in 1776 that Vivaldi's "Opera VIII is the most applauded of Vivaldi's works."

Cultural Impact

Vivaldi's "The Four Seasons" were so popular in France that "Spring" was a favorite at the Concert Spiritual, and a Paris edition of Opus 8 appeared in 1739.

Composition History

Vivaldi's Opus 8 concertos, titled "Il cimento dell'armonia e dell'inventione" (The trial between harmony and invention), were first published in Amsterdam in 1725.

Instruments

The Avison Ensemble, featured on this recording, plays 18th-century music on period instruments, including violins from the 17th and 18th centuries, and an archlute and harpsichord built after historical models.

Composer Biography

Antonio Vivaldi, the composer, was born on March 4, 1678, and was baptized at home on the day of his birth due to fears he might die abruptly.

Performer Biography

Pavlo Beznosiuk, the director and violinist on this album, has established a reputation as one of Europe's most respected Baroque violinists over the last 25 years.