A much-underrated composer, Luigi Boccherini (1743-1805) was one of the leading composers of the late 18th century, a friend and colleague of both Haydn and Mozart, and a formidable cello virtuoso. Although less dramatic than either Haydn or Mozart, his music does have moments of explosive drama that appear all the more effective when bursting fortissimo from an otherwise calm movement. The harmonic shifts are also surprising and used to great effect. His music is sensuous, charming and highly melodious, yet may be passionate and dramatic as well.
This new recording presents the complete Duets for two violins by Boccherini. Originally conceived as study material, these works far transcend this aim, as they are challenging, skillfully written compositions, brimming with good tunes and blazing vitality.
Played by Igor Ruhadze and Daria Gorban, specialized in Baroque repertoire, having recorded the complete works by Locatelli and works by Nardini (BC 96873). Ruhadze’s recording of the Boccherini violin sonatas on Brilliant Classics (BC 96612) received 5 stars in the French Diapason.
Works:
CD 1•Luigi Boccherini: Duet in G Major, Op. 3 No. 1, G56
•Luigi Boccherini: Duet in F Major, Op. 3 No. 2, G57
•Luigi Boccherini: Duet in A Major, Op. 3 No. 3, G58
•Luigi Boccherini: Duet in B-Flat Major, Op. 3 No. 4, G59
•Luigi Boccherini: Duet in E-Flat Major, Op. 3 No. 5, G60
CD 2•Luigi Boccherini: Duet in D Major, Op. 3 No. 6, G61
•Luigi Boccherini: Duet in E Major, Op. 46 No. 2, G64
•Luigi Boccherini: Duet in E Major, Op. 46 No. 2, G64
•Luigi Boccherini: Duet in F Minor, Op. 46 No. 3, G65
•Luigi Boccherini: Duet in A Major, Op. 46 No. 6 G68
CD 3•Luigi Boccherini: Duet in G Major, Op. 46 No. 1, G63
•Luigi Boccherini: Duet in C Major, Op. 46 No. 4, G66
•Luigi Boccherini: Duet in E-Flat Major, Op. 46 No. 5, G67