J. S. BACH

Organ Trio Sonatas (arranged for multiple instruments)

Florilegium

Trio Sonata in G major BWV525

(originally in E flat major)

Flute, violin, cello, harpsichord

Trio Sonata in G major BWV530

Violin, viola da gamba, harpsichord

Trio Sonata in D major BWV529

(originally in C major)

Flute, harpsichord

Trio Sonata in E minor BWV 528

Viola/violin, viola da gamba, cello, lute

Trio Sonata in G minor BWV527

(originally in D minor)

Piccolo cello, harpsichord

Trio Sonata in E minor BWV526

(originally in C minor)

Flute, violin, viola da gamba, lute, harpsichord

The wealth of secular and sacred music Bach produced in his lifetime belies the fact that very few bona fide works for chamber ensemble exist (or survive). This prompted us, with a great sense of humility and difference towards the master, to increase our chamber repertoire with these beguiling gems.

Our task of adapting these pieces for varying combinations of instruments can also be seen as harking back to Bach’s own interest in transferring styles and idioms from other works to a solo or group of instruments, and vice-versa, something which he explored particularly during his years of employment at the ducal court in Weimar (1708-1717).

Regular performances in some of the world’s most prestigious venues have confirmed Florilegium’s status as one of Britain’s most outstanding period instrument ensemble. Since their formation in 1991 they have established a reputation for stylish and exciting interpretations, from intimate chamber works to largescale orchestral and choral repertoire.

(...) Ashley Solomon and his superb period instrumental ensemble Florilegium continue to produce recordings of the Baroque repertoire for Channel Classics that are thrilling in execution and imaginatively conceived. (...) SACD.net

Channel Classics SACD CCSSA27012