Customer Reviews

Fasch: Orchestral Music

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Fasch is one of those "forgotten" Baroque composers that is now being rediscovered. His music is top-notch, absolutely masterful, extremely interesting, utilizing instrumental resources to their fullest capability. Fasch was a member of the Dresden school, and composed for what was probably the most virtuosic orchestra in Europe between 1710-1740. This recording brings all these musical superlatives to life: the playing, phrasing, dynamics, and excitement of Fasch's music -- I have listened to it many times over the past few weeks. One slight criticism: I would like the tempi to be a bit faster; Fasch writes truly exciting music, and a slightly faster pace would bring this out better. I have 14 CD's of music by Fasch (plus a few LP's) and this recording presents new, until now unrecorded music, not duplicating anything recorded before. This recording is a gem, and a treasured CD in my collection. Absolutely recommended!

Tempesta di Mare is a great Philadelphia-based baroque ensemble. I've been to a few of their concerts and encourage readers to do the same. On this album, their playing is spirited and technically flawless. The recording quality is top notch as well.

The album is everything one would like in a Baroque recording except for one thing. Fasch is simply not a good enough composer to hold our attention. It's 18th-century elevator music, to be played in the background while the nobility dallied and flirted. And although the title of this review refers to J. S., the Bach who first came to mind was C. P. E., because after listening to Fasch's pablum, it is easy to understand why Emmanuel's thrilling and bizarre compositions were so appreciated in his time.