Customer Reviews

Corelli: 12 Concerti grossi, op. 6

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Trevor Pinnock's recording of Corelli's Op. 6 Concerti grossi will not be to all tastes. Those raised on traditional instrument recordings by such as Max Goberman/Vienna Sinfonietta (Odyssey LPs, circulated in the 1970s) or Paul Angerer/Southwest German Chamber Orchestra (Vox) may not like the clipped articulation and fast tempos Pinnock uses. But the English Concert is a joy to hear: and can THEY PLAY! The allegros sizzle with joy and tension (in the minor key movements) and I find myself unable to resist conducting myself to the rhythmic patterns they generate. I think Corelli would be pleased, and I doubt he ever heard this good a performance of his Opus 6 Concertos.

Concerto 8, subtitled "Christmas" may be the most famous Op. 6 Concerto. Pinnock's way with it may seem superficial, and tempos are faster than what I'm used to in this work. But I'm used to recordings of I Musici (Philips), Angerer (Vox), and Shepherd/Cantilena (Chandos). The closing "Pastorale" doesn't seem to have enough time to breathe, but Pinnock is more sensitive to the Baroque performance practice principles where Siciliana and Pastorale movements are played more quickly than 20th century conductors led them, adhering to more Romanticized performance practice.

As a set, I give this high marks, and there is alot of energy and joy without slighting Corelli's music. The recorded sound is also very good, and the strings have a full, rich sound, even with no vibrato and period instruments.

Lovely, energetic, committed performances of these works. Consistent high quality playing throughout. Everything is refined and polished to the nth degree. A great example of orchestral playing in the baroque style. Recording quality leaves nothing to be desired - absolutely clear and transparent.

This was my first exposure to the famed Concerti Grossi of Corelli, though not to Pinnock and his English Concert. The ensemble makes an excellent case for the concerti and makes their high popularity understandable (especially in England, where a full quarter century after their composer's death they were to leave such an impact on 12 Concerti by another bloke named Handel). Many of the tempos are quick but never frantic; the 10th Concerto in C is a particular delight. The interplay between the concertino and the tutti strings is absolutely perfect. Highly recommended.

In a world dominated by Gabrelli and Vivaldi, Corelli's 12 Concerti Grossi (Op. 6) are gems. The performance of Pinnock and the English Concert is superb and the Archive recording crystal clear and in high fidelity. To the inexperienced ear the components of each piece flow together, yet the distinguishable melodies create a relaxing, enjoyable atmosphere -- either for a listener intent on each note, or as atmosphere while going about the day's business or leisure. Guided to this recording by the soundtrack for the movie "Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World," you will be not long into the first of this two CD set before being rewarded for your purchase. Wonderful.

This recording sits in the same exalted place as Pinnock's Brandenburg Concertos. The combination of Corelli's gorgeous lyrical beauty and Pinnock's intimate, passionate ensemble is just explosive. I never tire of listening to this, and I agree with another reviewer that this disc could win anyone over to the baroque era. And this is the kind of recording that will not offend those that are allergic to period-instrument thinness. I think what I like about Pinnock recordings is that one feels part of the ensemble, and can almost feel the grate of the bow across the strings. Some recordings are great, admirable, etc. This one I would call essential. It says something about Pinnock that so many of his recordings could be called such. And what a value! If you jump on the Pinnock train, try out Handel's Concerti Grossi Op. 6: available as part of the Handel Orchestral Works set.

This is one of the most gorgeous pieces of baroque music ever written. A tour de force from start to finish. Beautiful, full of life, dedicated performances of these great Corelli works.
Consistent first class playing and recording all the way through.
Highly recommended.

A masterpiece from beginning to end. This is a "must have" for anyone who enjoys classical music, and my personal favorite classical CD. A+!!!

I would defintely rate this a five star. This is one of the most beautiful Baroque pieces ever written. Anybody who is a beginner to classical music must have this set of concerti. Each movement has very good balance and tempo. Especially the 7th concerto. Trevor Pinnock is awesome at Corelli.

Corelli's opus 6 concerto grossi are what I consider to be ideal reading music. Some of the most beautiful music from the baroque period, Corelli sometimes doesn't get his due. However, without his remarkable accomplishments, we probably wouldn't be blessed with the fine concerto grossi from men such as Vivaldi and J.S.Bach and others

This particular performance is about as good as you will find. I've always found Trevor Pinnock's English Concert to be precise and clear. Comberti's performance is especially good on these CDs.

If you are looking to curl up with a good book and a bottle of excellent wine, this CD is an ideal companion to a wonderful evening.

Of all the classical CDs in my collection, this two-CD set is my absolute favorite. The composition is superb, the performance is flawless and the recording is as close as you can get to actually being at a live performance. This CD set might cost a little more than one by lesser known musicians/conductor but the difference in what you hear is worth every penny.