Wassenaer: 6 Concerti armonici

Featuring

Richard Jenkinson
Innovation Chamber Ensemble
Unico Willem van Wassenaer

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Cultural Impact

A movement from one of these concertos, then attributed to Pergolesi, was used by Igor Stravinsky in his seminal neo-classical ballet, Pulcinella.

Performer Biography

The Innovation Chamber Ensemble was formed in 2001 by the principal string players of the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra.

Composition History

The true composer, Count Unico Wilhelm van Wassenaer, a distinguished Dutch diplomat, insisted his name not appear on the publication, perhaps due to aristocratic prejudice or his own dissatisfaction with the works.

Compositional Technique

The Concerti Armonici showcase a blend of early and late Baroque idioms, with anticipations of the Galant style, demonstrating Wassenaer's curiosity about contemporary musical trends.

Composition History

The Six Concerti Armonici were published anonymously in 1740, and their true authorship remained a mystery for over 200 years.

Composer Biography

Count Unico Wilhelm van Wassenaer, the composer, was a prominent Dutch diplomat, soldier, and director of the East India Company, known for both his political and musical talents.

Composition History

The Concerti Armonici were once widely attributed to the Italian Baroque master Giovanni Battista Pergolesi, boosting their reputation and circulation during the 19th century.