Fasch: Orchestral Works, Volume 2

This is Volume 2 in Chandos’ series of orchestral works by Johann Friedrich Fasch, a contemporary of J.S. Bach and Telemann. In his day, his output in terms of cantatas, concertos, symphonies, and chamber music was performed extensively across the German-speaking world, and Fasch was held in great esteem by Bach who owned copies of six of his orchestral suites, and arranged at least one of his piano trio sonatas for organ.

Fasch, perhaps more than any other composer of the age, marks the transition from baroque to early classical. He was an initiator, and his music broke down the mould of the fugal style in favour of thematic development, which became the basis of romantic writing. Richard Stone of Tempesta di Mare describes his music as ‘fantastic, true discoveries… they have the breadth and complexity of J.S. Bach without the austerity, and have a much more evolved sense of orchestral colour that is truly extraordinary’. The works on this album are recorded live in concert at the Presbyterian Church of Chestnut Hill in Philadelphia, US.

Tempesta di Mare, the Philadelphia Baroque Orchestra, performs baroque music on baroque instruments with what the Philadelphia City Paper describes as ‘zest and virtuosity that transcends style and instrumentation’. Under its artistic directors Gwyn Roberts and Richard Stone, and with Emlyn Ngai as concertmaster, the ensemble performs a repertoire ranging from staged opera with full orchestra to chamber music. The group performs without a conductor, as was the practice when this music was new. Tempesta di Mare has been recording exclusively for Chandos since 2004, to worldwide popular and critical acclaim.

“... These fresh, sprightly performances by the Philadelphia-based Tempesta di Mare cause one to wonder why Johann Friedrich Fasch has been so consistently overlooked. The clear sound of the recording achieves an effect that is both spacious and intimate. The booklet states that these were live performances, but there is no a sound from the evidently attentive audience, nor indeed any applause (of which there is likely to have been plenty). On the evidence of this disc and its predecessor (CHAN 0751), Fasch is clearly a major figure.”

Michael Wheeler – The Consort – Summer 2012

“...the playing of these Philadelphians is both stylish and passionate. The recording is very fine and notably 3-dimensional, making for an exciting and involving listen ...”

Andy Fawcett - Audiophilia.com – 3 April 2012

“...His [Fasch] music is, like Telemann’s, generally optimistic, even in monor mode, and quite delightful. I was particularly moved by the handsomely eloquent slow movement in the G-major Flute Concerto, nearly ten minutes of profundity amid framing gaiety. The Tempesta players are in full command of their period instruments and make some wonderfully bouncy, bubbly sounds. These performances will delight listeners...”

Barker – American Record Guide – March/April 2012

“...This is the second disc of Fasch released by Chandos with Tempesta di Mare, the Philadelphia Baroque Orchestra. I reviewed the first in Fanfare 32:1, noting that Tempesta “deliver(s) the goods with grace, energy and elegance” in “performances that are fresh, vibrant and spontaneous” This release continues the tradition; it is full of vitality and elegance, not to mention stylishness that is difficult to equal, let long surpass. The recordings are actual concert performances from 2010-2011 and are cloaked in the wonderful sonic aura of the Presbyterian Church, Chestnut Hill, Philadelphia... both of their recordings should be part of your collection.”

Michael Carter – Fanfare – March/April 2012

*****

I have to confess to a great liking for the music of Fasch. Partly sentimental he figured on the first classical LP i ever bought in 1965-a set of Baroque trumpet concerti.His melodies are always infectious and it's easy to see why he was held in such high regard in his own day and considered by many to be superior to Bach. The recording is spacious, clear and very detailed, as good as Vol.1 which I also love. His music is coming back into favour and deservedly so as it is beautifully orchestrated, very melodic and would put a smile on the face of the most difficult listener. He was prolific, I hope Chandos and Tempesta di Mare are also generous with providing us more Fasch

P OMalley

*****

Magnificent

J Rebollo

Fasch: Orchestral Works, Volume 2

Philadelphia Baroque Orchestra

Tempesta di Mare

Presbyterian Church of Chestnut Hill, Philadelphia Pennsylvania, USA (live)

Lani Spahr

Ralph Couzens

David Walters

Dustin Ford

Loren Stata

Baroque

JOHANN FRIEDRICH FASCH

Concerto, FWV L: D5

Ouverture, FWV K: a1

Sinfonia, FWV M: g1

Concerto, FWV L: G13