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5.0 out of 5 stars
Reminiscent of Boccherini's Cello Concertos/Symphonies, Feb 11 2002
The Virgin 'Veritas' label has released some excellent recordings (Vivaldi's Opus 3 and 9, for instance), and this double-disc issue of C.P.E's symphonies/cello concertos is no exception. [...] these discs sound absolutely fantastic! C.P.E. Bach, probably J.S. Bach's best-known son, composed a number of great works, some of which are featured on this release. Born in 1714, C.P.E Bach's compositions served as a musical bridge between the late Baroque and Classical periods (he was a contemporary of Vivaldi, Mozart, and Haydn). Both of C.P.E.'s cello concertos and symphonies remind me of those composed by Boccherini (another first-rate -- if often neglected -- 18th century composer). Just as Boccherini's works have been overshadowed by Mozart's works and life, C.P.E. Bach's elegant symphonies and beautiful concertos sometimes get lost in his father's prodigious output. Fortunately, labels like Virgin, Hyperion, and Denon have attempted to fill the gap by issuing their works on disc. [...] this 2-disc set is unbeatable. But I recommend listening to Bach's better-known works first (like the Brandenburg Concertos, Violin concertos, etc.) before tackling his son's compositions (if only to appreciate 1) how C.P.E was influenced by his father, and 2) how his works reflect both late Baroque and Classical influences).
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