Composer

:

Tomaso Albinoni

Genre

:

Concerto

Style

:

Concerto

Compose Date

:

1735 - 1736

Publication Date

:

1736

Average_duration

:

95:52

Tomaso Albinoni's Concerti à cinque (12), for 3 violins, viola, cello & continuo, Op. 10, is a collection of twelve concertos that were composed in the early 18th century. The collection was first published in Amsterdam in 1729 and has since become one of Albinoni's most popular works. The concertos are written for a small ensemble of three violins, viola, cello, and continuo, which was a common instrumentation for Baroque concertos. The concertos are divided into three movements, with the first and third movements typically in a fast tempo and the second movement in a slower tempo. The first concerto in the collection, in B-flat major, is a good example of the characteristics of the entire collection. The first movement is a lively and energetic Allegro, with the three violins playing in unison and the other instruments providing a solid rhythmic foundation. The second movement is a beautiful Adagio, with the violins playing a lyrical melody over a simple accompaniment. The final movement is a fast and lively Allegro, with the violins once again playing in unison and the other instruments providing a driving rhythm. One of the most notable characteristics of Albinoni's Concerti à cinque is the use of counterpoint. Albinoni was a master of counterpoint, and he often uses it to create complex and intricate textures in his music. The concertos also feature a wide range of dynamic contrasts, from the soft and delicate to the loud and powerful. The Concerti à cinque were premiered in Venice, Italy, in the early 18th century, and they quickly became popular throughout Europe. They were particularly popular in England, where they were frequently performed at public concerts and private gatherings. Overall, Tomaso Albinoni's Concerti à cinque (12), for 3 violins, viola, cello & continuo, Op. 10, is a beautiful and engaging collection of Baroque concertos. With their intricate counterpoint, dynamic contrasts, and lively rhythms, these concertos continue to be popular with audiences and performers alike.

More....