JOHN GARTH

Six Cello Concertos for violoncello

 

CD1:

Concerto No. 1 in D major

Concerto No. 2 in B flat major

Concerto No. 3 in A major

 

CD2:

Concerto No. 4 in B flat major

Concerto No. 5 in D minor

Concerto No. 6 in G major

 

Total playing time CD1 43.33 CD2 50.36

 

Richard Tunnicliffe

Avison Ensemble

 

In the 18th century, Durham was a small bustling metropolis. The Norman cathedral nestled above the city and was a focal point for musicians, clergy and dignitaries, being situated on the main route from London to Edinburgh.

 

John Garth was born not far from Durham in 1721 and was a pupil of Charles Avison, the Newcastle organist and composer. Garth was himself a gifted organist and composer. He was also highly involved with the Durham music scene.

 

The works recorded here were published in 1760 and dedicated to Edward, Duke of Your, an accomplished cellist. They were composed at a time of great change in British music – away from the baroque concerti grossi of Corelli and Geminiani towards the three movement ‘da camera’ approach developed by composers such as J. C. Bach. These Garth concertos contain influences of both styles and are utterly delightful listening. This world premiere recording features period instruments.

 

Garth is hardly known in the UK, and this release will introduce him to a new audience. The booklet notes are written by Simon Fleming who is currently researching a PhD at Durham University on music in Durham in the 18th century.

 

Comprised of some of Europe's leading musicians and soloists and in addition to playing other works from the baroque and early classical periods, the Avison Ensemble promotes chamber concerts and is furthering the revival of the once famous Newcastle Subscription Concerts, originally established and promoted by Charles Avison himself.

 

The Ensemble have chosen to perform on period instruments in order to recreate as closely as possible the distinctive 'sound world' that Charles Avison would have known.

 

On this recording they comprise:

Pavlo Beznosiuk and Caroline Balding (violins) Rachel Byrt (viola), Richard Tunnicliffe (solo cello), Catherine Rimmer (cello), Timothy Amherst (bass) and Robert Howarth (harpsichord).

 

Divine Art 2cds DDA25059