Customer Reviews

Haydn: Baryton Divertimenti

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If you have never heard of a baryton, it is a six-stringed cello-like instrument (but with no pin) that has strings in the back of the neck which are plucked like a harp. This CD features John Hsu, a professor of music at Cornell University, and one of the world's premiere baryton players. You owe it to yourself to hear this warm and lyrical CD. And, if anyone ever asks you in what musical form did Haydn write the most works, don't make the mistake of replying "symphonies." Show your mastery of obscure classical music trivia and say "baryton trios!"

This CD took my breath away. Haydn's baryton trios are full of the same beautiful, and occasionally witty, melodies as his other music, but the sound is unlike anything else I've ever heard. The reason is that these trios are played by a baryton (which sounds similar to a cello or viola da gamba), a viola, and a cello; as a result, the overall sound is deeper, richer, and more mellow than chamber music including violins or other higher-pitched instruments. The performances on this CD are impeccable, and the recording quality is as good as it gets. If the Barytone Trio were to record ALL of Haydn's music for barytone (well over a hundred compositions), one would simply never tire of listening to them. Incredible!

I like cello stuff and Viola de Gamba pieces. This reminds me of the Viola de Gamba a lot. A very nice disc. If you like the low string sound and Haydn - you can't go wrong.