Description
This release features instrumental compositions by Georg Philipp Telemann (1681–1767) performed by the Altberg Ensemble under Peter van Heyghen.
In the bourgeois environment of the city of Leipzig, Telemann founded his own collegium musicum – a group of friends playing together for pleasure; however, he quickly managed to bring the quality of its performance to the concert level. He was particularly keen on composing overtures in the French style for his musicians, referring to the oeuvre of Jean-Baptiste Lully and Philippe Rameau. In turn, in the Concerto in G Major, called in the sources 'Concerto polonois', he alluded to the Polish tradition. One can hear here the triple, solemn rhythm of the polonaise and characteristic sounds hinting at the folk instruments the composer had the opportunity to overhear during his stay at the Promnitz court in Pszczyna. Original, interesting ensembles and the compositional technique allowed Telemann not only to create melodically original compositions, but also to experiment with sound. This music will probably be appreciated not only by connoisseurs, but by all those who look for colours and moods therein.
"This is a wonderful release, constituting a stylish addition to the Telemann discography, and self-recommending for fans of the composer. But it will also provide rewarding listening for those who regret that Bach did not write any more than his four Orchestral Suites and seek more such repertoire. It is a record I look forward to returning to many times over." – MusicWeb International