Telemann's wind music is particularly suited to the horn and this collection of concertos and grand overtures demonstrates the composer's ability to create beautiful celebratory music.
The opening Overture includes such luscious scoring as 'corni da caccia' that create a sense of pomp and circumstance. This is more in the form of an extended concerto that lasts around 23 minutes, rather similar to Bach's more famous Suites. The overture is actually only the opening movement. The following concerto includes three horns and here I was particularly delighted to hear the Deutsche Naturhorn Solisten perform with such evident relish throughout. The same infectious spirit informs the Overture TWV 55 that includes scoring for 2 hunting horns, trumpets and strings, probably one of Telemann's best works, The concluding concerto is very Vivaldian in style but contains that authentic German touch that is so characteristic of this composer.
It goes without saying that the DNS play with an informed capability throughout and the extensive notes add to the allure of the production. Indeed a splendid disc that shows off the innate capabilities of these virtuoso artists.
Copyright © 2001, Gerald Fenech