Tafelmusik Vol. 1

Like Reviewer 1, I experienced intermittent audio problems and also skips in my set of the the First Series. The audio problem is ignored my ratings in the title. The opening Overture in E for 2 flutes has passages reminiscent of the more famous Suite in A for flute and strings. Here, however, the flutes indulge in all manner of clever and inventive "French" interactions with the strings, interspersed with full orchestra segments; the whole is delicately and deftly executed by the Orchestra of the Golden Age. If Reviewer 2 likes the Camerata Koln, I am not sure why he is down on this version, except perhaps preferring the more robust Reinhard Goebel style in preference to the very light touch of the ensemble formed by Robert Glenton (cello) in 1995.

It's well to remember that Telemann invented the quartet form (not the classical string quartet form whose origin is debated but often attributed to Haydn), much later. Telemann composed some 25 of these quartets, one of which, for flute, oboe, violin and cello (with continuo) is included here.

I admit I prefer living tradition style, which gives me more direct access to "absolute" music rather than having to project myself back into history. But I can't fault the sensitivity and precision with which the Golden Age ensemble performs. Then too, the NAXOS price is much lower than the competitive Deutsche Grammophon and other brands.