ARTEMANDOLINE
Concerto Imperiale
Italian music at the court of Austria
Between the end of the 17th century and the beginning of the 18th century, instrumental music experienced an unprecedented artistic bloom. Even to the present day, the immense unexplored original repertoire for mandolin represents a period of transition of vital importance. It is a treasure trove, which deserves to be rediscovered and enhanced. This programme proposes works by well known and lesser-known composers in an attempt to illustrate the main styles and the most significant expressive forms of the period.
Works by: Evaristo Felice dall’Abaco, G. A. Brescianello, G. Cocchi, Conti, Rizzi, Sauli, Schlick, Neuling…Performers: 6 musicians
In this way, the purely instrumental music of the mandolin attained a high level of perfection in the 18th century. It was played not only at court in Vienna and in the aristocratic salons, but also among the middle classes in pursuit of culture. This was the golden age of the mandolin, and the refined and intellectual atmosphere of the salons and private residences gave a new artistic direction to the music of the time, revolutionising the taste and sensibilities of a much wider audience.
REVIEW
[...] The ensemble Artemandoline definitely dusts the instrument by bringing it to the pinnacle of virtuosity. This freedom doesn’t contradicts the magic of the pages of Uccellini, Weiss, Scarlatti, Arrigoni, Castello. She sublimes it. A record that can not be missed, as it inspires a joy of living.
François-Xavier Lacroux, France Musique