Twelve Hats For Lena

When one thinks of the most iconic German musician of the Baroque era, the obvious name that comes to mind is that of Johann Sebastian Bach. During their lifetimes, however, Bach was decidedly less famous and appreciated than his contemporary Georg Philipp Telemann. Whilst Bach had been almost predestined to the musician’s career, as he was but one of the numerous musicians of his family (to the point that “Bach” had become a synonymous for “musician”), Telemann had had another path traced for him. He was encouraged to study law, and at first did obey his family’s orders. Soon, however, it became clear that nothing except music could satisfy his genius and his talent.

THIS PATTERN BOOKLET INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING: BASIC BEANIE, PIRATE, PINK POSIES, COWBOY, LITTLE PRINCESS, BASEBALL CAP, PIGTAILS & CURLS, PRIVATE EYE, GRANNY CAP, CANDY CANE STRIPES, TOP KNOTS BEANIE, BEACHCOMBER, FLORAL FASHIONISTA

Telemann: Twelve Fantasies for Solo Violin 1735 - Rachel Podger [2006]
Genre: Classical | Style: Baroque | Label: Channel | Country/Year: Netherlands, 2006 | 5% Rec. Info
FLAC (tracks) | EAC+CUE+LOG+PDF Booklet | Total Time: 75:02 | 399 MB

This is a true gem from the Baroque era that is rarely played or recorded. These fantasies for solo violin were written in 1735, only 15 yrs after Bach wrote his infinitely famous Sonatas and Partidas for solo violin. Fans of Bach looking for new music will be happy listening to these fresh works. I really enjoy the imagination and creativity displayed here, plenty of rhythmic diversity and unattached musical ideas to spare.

Ever since she broke up with Nigel, Lena soldiers on through life as best she can with her two kids. She valiantly overcomes the obstacles put in her way. But she has yet to confront the worst of them: Her unstoppable family has decided, by any means necessary, to make her happy.

When reviewing music by a composer that is new to me I make it a policy not to read the inlay notes of the disc so as not to come to any preconceived attitudes regarding the music. So my first impressions of these "Twelve Divertimentis" by James Oswald played by Rob Mackillop on a 18th century wire-strung guitar was that of the composer not having a formal musical education but of a simple but talented minstrel perhaps from Scotland or Ireland who, given the rustic feel of his music, with its dance like movements, was employed to provide the music for local village dances.