Avison, C.: Trio Sonatas, Op. 1 / Keyboard Sonatas, Op. 8

Album Description

Dive into the world of Charles Avison, a prominent English composer who bridged the gap between the Baroque and Classical periods, with this exquisite collection of his instrumental works. Released on April 1, 2013, by Divine Art, this album presents a comprehensive exploration of Avison's compositions, featuring his renowned Trio Sonatas, Op. 1, and Keyboard Sonatas, Op. 8.

The Avison Ensemble, a group specialized in 18th-century music performed on period instruments, brings these works to life with authenticity and virtuosity. The ensemble, named in honor of Charles Avison, comprises talented musicians including Beznosiuk, Balding, Tunnicliffe, and Howarth, each contributing their expertise to deliver a captivating performance.

This album spans a generous 1 hour and 37 minutes, offering a rich tapestry of musical styles and techniques that Avison mastered during his career. The Trio Sonatas, Op. 1, showcase his skill in composing for multiple instruments, with each sonata presenting a unique blend of movements that range from the serene to the exhilarating. The Keyboard Sonatas, Op. 8, on the other hand, highlight Avison's prowess in writing for solo keyboard, with pieces that are both technically demanding and musically rewarding.

Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast of Baroque and Classical music or a curious newcomer, this album provides an excellent opportunity to explore the works of Charles Avison. The meticulous attention to historical performance practices by the Avison Ensemble ensures an authentic listening experience, allowing you to appreciate the nuances of Avison's compositions as they were intended to be heard.

April 1, 2013

2013 Divine Art

About Charles Avison

Charles Avison, born in 1709 in Newcastle upon Tyne, was a pioneering English composer and organist whose work bridged the Baroque and Classical periods. Avison's musical journey began in the churches of Newcastle, where he served as an organist at St John The Baptist and St Nicholas's Church. His compositions, which include over 80 works, are notable for their transitional style, blending the ornate Baroque idiom with the emerging Classical forms.

Avison is perhaps best known for his 12 Concerti Grossi after Scarlatti, which showcase his mastery of the concerto form. His Essay on Musical Expression, published in 1752, was a groundbreaking work, marking the first instance of music criticism in the English language. This essay, along with his compositions, reflects Avison's deep engagement with the musical culture of his time and his willingness to challenge established norms, as seen in his advocacy for the music of his mentor, Francesco Geminiani, over that of Handel.

Avison's legacy extends beyond his compositions, encompassing his roles as a teacher, conductor, and performer. By the time he reached his 50s, he had established himself as a significant figure in English music, leaving an indelible mark on the musical landscape of his era. His works, which include a variety of instrumental pieces such as sonatas and concerti, continue to be celebrated for their innovation and artistic merit. Avison passed away in 1770, leaving behind a rich musical heritage that continues to inspire and inform.