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With his four books of Sonatas, Jean-Marie Leclair established himself as the founder of the French School of violin playing, whose elegance he enlivened with the lyricism of the Italian baroque master, Corelli.
The first four from Leclair’s first book of violin sonatas balance humour, flamboyance and rustic charm with many technical challenges.
The artists on this recording are accomplished interpreters of early music, having performed with leading period instrument ensembles including the Hanover Band, Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment and The Academy of Ancient Music.
Jean-Marie Leclair: Flute Sonata in C major, Op. 1, No. 2
I. Adagio
II. Corrente: Allegro
III. Gavotta: Grazioso
IV. Giga: Allegro
Jean-Marie Leclair: Violin Sonata in B flat major, Op. 1, No. 3
I. Adagio
II. Allegro
III. Largo
IV. Tempo Gavotta: Allegro
Jean-Marie Leclair: Violin Sonata in A minor, Op. 1, No. 1
I. Adagio
II. Allemanda: Allegro
III. Aria: Grazioso
IV. Giga: Allegro
Jean-Marie Leclair: Violin Sonata in D major, Op. 1, No. 4
I. Adagio
II. Allegro
III. Andante
IV. Tempo Gavotta
V. Minuetto
November 2009
“…Leclair… produced music that's finely crafted, charmingly tuneful and undeniably spirited. Adrian Butterfield is a worthy champion. The sweetness of his tone, aptness of his tempi and the lightness with which he wears his virtuosity perfectly complement the music, and Alison McGillivray and Laurence Cummings provide unfailingly stylish support. This is one of those recordings you will want to return to again and again.”
2011 edition
“The music of Jean-Marie Leclair is underrated. Its merits are considerable, his lyricism has an appealing directness and charm and his Allegros are buoyant and spirited...the performances here are first-class, full of life and spontaneous expressive feeling.”
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I. Adagio
