Concerti Grossi op. 6 (2CD)
Considered among the finest examples of Baroque orchestral music,
Handel's Concerti Grossi, Op.6, completed in 1739 over a mere four
weeks, surpass the work of other outstanding composers of the form, such
as Vivaldi, Scarlatti, and Corelli. Conceived as a grand cycle rather
than as individual compositions, these 12 pieces demonstrate Handel's
facility blending a variety of styles and devices with seemingly endless
melodic beauty. Andrew Manze leads The Academy of Ancient Music in a
vivid and vibrant performance.