Ensemble Parthenope (Old Music Ensemble)

This program features works by violin virtuosos from across the Alps, including Westhoff, Walter, and Pisendel. The ensemble of violins and gorgeous bass ensembles will take you into the world of the Baroque.

Program:
J.P. Westhoff / Sonata No. 3 in D minor for violin and basso continuo
J.J. Walter: The Garden of Caelus No. 5 in F major
J.G. Pisendel / Violin Sonata in G minor
A. Vivaldi: Sonata for cello and basso continuo in A minor, RV44
A.M. Bartolotti: Suite for theorbo solo
J.S. Bach biography (J.D. Heinichen) / Fantasia in all keys BWV Anh.179

Westhoff and Walther were violin virtuosos active in Dresden. Westhoff's works, also in manuscript form in the Estens Collection in Modena, greatly influenced the Modena composer Colombi and other Italian composers. Walter also served for several years at the court of Cosimo III in Florence. Their advanced technique of playing double stops and arpeggios influenced Bach as well as Italy. Vivaldi also crossed the Alps from Venice to Vienna. Vivaldi's Four Seasons and Concertos, which were very popular throughout Europe, had a great influence on German composers as well. This year's Ensemble Parthenope program, entitled "Geniuses Across the Alps," focuses on composers who had a great influence from Germany to Italy and from Italy to Germany.