Purcell: Ten Sonatas in Four Parts. The King's Consort. Vivat CD
This disc (on their own Vivat label) will continue bringing the English composer back into prominence.
It also strengthens this group's reputation as the leading performers of Purcell works.
These 10 trio sonatas were published after Purcell's death by his widow; like Mozart's widow, she had to earn income from her husband's musical legacy.
The trio comprises Cecilia Bernardini and Huw Daniel (violins), with Susanne Heinrich (bass viol).
Robert King (chamber organ and harpsichord), who leads the consort, provides a basso continuo with Linda Sayce on theorbo (a kind of long-necked lute).
The famous ''Golden Sonata'', (Sonata in F major) has here been placed fourth in this recital of the 10, published in 1697.
All of them have five or six movements, and they progress smoothly, containing elegant and enjoyable melodies.
Plus there are moments of profound emotion backed by harmonic inventions that were novel complexities in their time, with sophisticated touches of daring dissonance.
The sonatas were recorded in Menuhin Hall, Surrey, and have been hailed by overseas critics with ''superbly played'', ''exquisitely performed'', and ''glittering virtuosity ... and ooze pathos in the agonised dissonances''.
But the composer would be amazed at such sonatas being played in one marathon.
While detail and balance is excellent, listening to them all in one sitting (bright sound of solo strings without vibrato tires) is not recommended.
Savour them separately.
Highlight: Chaconne at end of ''Golden Sonata''.
