The ensemble L'Arte dell'Arco performs on original instruments, with violinists Giovanni Guglielmo and Federico Guglielmo playing a Bernardus Calcanius (1710) and a P. A. Testore (18th century) respectively.
Composition History
From 1723 to 1735, Vivaldi was contractually obligated to compose two concertos per month, resulting in over 250 instrumental works.
Compositional Technique
Vivaldi was ingenious in dividing thematic material between two soloists, using four approaches including parallel thirds, contrapuntal play, and one violin accompanying the other.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Vivaldi's double violin concertos were privileged compositions due to their pedagogical implications, fostering rivalry between soloists and creating a spectacular effect in concert.
Interpretation
L'Arte dell'Arco, the instrumental ensemble on this recording, is directed by Giovanni Guglielmo, an exponent of the early Venetian school of interpretation.
Composer Biography
Antonio Vivaldi, known as the "Red Priest," was a great violin virtuoso and taught at Venice's Ospedale della Pietà for two long periods.
