Virgin: 5618122

With the glut of Bach recordings being issued, other composers have remained quite in the shadows this year so it is welcome to review this excellent reissue of Telemann's 'Paris' Quartets, delightfully fresh works full of harmony and invention. Wilbert Hazelzet's flute playing is beyond reproach and he tackles Telemann's occasionally complex figurations and virtuosos passages with ease and aplomb. Each quartet has its own peculiar characteristics and memorable passages but I was greatly enthused by the noble 6th Quartet in E minor where the music takes on an impressively heroic nature. The Second Quartet in E minor is also a charming work with a vivacious middle section and a rousingly breathtaking finale. Sonnerie include such illustrious members as Monica Huggett and Sarah Cunnigham whilst the harpsichord accompaniment is shared between Gary Cooper and Mitzi Meyerson. At the budget Veritas price this album is very much worth acquiring although it is a pity that the extensive notes that accompanied the first issue have now been lost in favour of a rather skimpy and general essay. Recording and presentation are otherwise first class throughout. - Musicweb