Telemann: Wind Concertos, Vol. 5

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Baroque music with Georg Philipp Telemann's "Wind Concertos, Vol. 5," a captivating collection released in 2011 under the CPO label. This album is a testament to Telemann's mastery of wind instruments, featuring six concertos that showcase a variety of solo and grouped wind ensembles, including a unique configuration of two horns and two oboes.

Spanning a total of 67 minutes, the album offers a diverse range of compositions, from the delicate and expressive Flute Concerto in D Major to the lively and energetic Concerto for 2 Horns in E-Flat Major. Each concerto is meticulously crafted, demonstrating Telemann's exceptional ability to blend technical prowess with emotional depth.

The album opens with the Flute Concerto in D Major, a piece that immediately draws the audience in with its gentle Andante movement. The subsequent Vivace, Largo, and Allegro movements each offer a distinct mood and tempo, showcasing the versatility of the flute and Telemann's compositional skill.

Following the flute concerto, the album presents the Concerto for 2 Oboes d'amore in A Major, a piece that highlights the rich, warm tones of the oboe d'amore. The concerto's Andante opening movement is followed by a lively Vivace, a serene Siciliana, and a spirited Allegro, each movement offering a unique exploration of the instrument's capabilities.

The Recorder Concerto in F Major adds a touch of whimsy to the album, with its Affettuoso opening movement and playful Allegro. The Adagio movement provides a moment of reflection, while the Menuets I & II close the concerto with a graceful, dance-like finale.

The Concerto for 2 Horns in E-Flat Major offers a bold and brassy contrast to the previous concertos, with its powerful Allegro opening movement and soaring Largo. The Vivace movement provides a lively counterpoint, while the final Allegro brings the concerto to a thrilling close.

The Oboe Concerto in D Minor adds a touch of drama and intensity to the album, with its Largo opening movement and fiery Vivace. The Andante movement offers a moment of respite, while the final Allegro brings the concerto to a dramatic and satisfying conclusion.

Finally, the Concerto for 2 Flutes in E Minor rounds out the album with its elegant and expressive performances. The Presto movement is a highlight, showcasing the flutes' agility and technical prowess, while the Cantabile movement offers a moment of lyrical beauty. The Menuet provides a graceful and elegant finale to the concerto and the album as a whole.

"Wind Concertos, Vol. 5" is a must-listen for anyone interested in Baroque music, wind instruments, or the works of Georg Philipp Telemann. With its diverse range of compositions, exceptional performances, and high-quality recording, this album is sure to delight and inspire listeners.