Virtuoso Recorder Concertos

Dive into the enchanting world of baroque music with Richard Harvey's "Virtuoso Recorder Concertos," a captivating collection released in 1999 under the Altus label. This album is a testament to the virtuosity of Richard Harvey, showcasing his mastery of the recorder across a diverse range of concertos.

Spanning a duration of 1 hour and 19 minutes, the album features 26 tracks that highlight the evolution of the solo concerto for recorder. From the virtuosic compositions of Antonio Vivaldi to the elegant stylings of Giuseppe Sammartini and Jacques-Christophe Naudot, each piece is performed with breathtaking fluency and tone control. The album also includes works by Alessandro Scarlatti, adding depth and variety to the collection.

Richard Harvey's skillful playing is complemented by the London Vivaldi Orchestra and Monica Huggett, creating a rich and dynamic sound that balances the soft, non-dynamic tone of the recorder with orchestral accompaniment. The album demonstrates an ingenious variety of approaches to this inherent musical problem, often using upper strings or continuo to support the recorder.

Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Virtuoso Recorder Concertos" offers a delightful exploration of baroque music. The album's diverse range of compositions and Richard Harvey's exceptional talent make it a standout addition to any music collection.