Francesco Durante: Concertos for Strings
Concerto for Strings No. 1 in F minor
Concerto for Strings No. 2 in G minor
Concerto for Strings No. 3 in E flat major
Concerto for Strings No. 4 in E minor
Concerto for Strings No. 5 in A major
Concerto for Strings No. 6 in A major
Concerto for Strings No. 7 in C major
Concerto for Strings No. 8 in A major, "La Pazzia"
Harpsichord Concerto in B flat major
Gerald Hambitzer, cembalo
Concerto Koln / Werner Ehrhardt, conductor
Recorded 1990, 92
Durante’s extensive work has up to the present hardly been revealed: reliable statements are rendered difficult through in many cases missing datings and apparently fairly large losses. What appears unusual, almost surprising for an 18th century Neapolitan composer, is his complete abstention from composing operas. Instead, he concentrated almost exclusively on sacred vocal music.
The unconventional and highly individual style of Durante’s music in its time attracted equally admirers and critics. His flamboyant style is particularly evident in the eight “Concerti per quartetto” which have been recorded completely for the first time, in this recording. When this collection of works was created is unknown, as is the case with most of Durante’s compositions, but observations of style point to the late seventeen thirties or early seventeen forties. The concerti were not printed, yet nevertheless there is evidence of seven contemporary copies having been made of them, from which the conclusion may be drawn that the compositions were quite widely circulated. ( Phoenix Edition )
