Over The Rhine Drunkard's Prayer

Written sometime between 1697 and 1706, these duos for viola da gamba are a joy to listen to. Inevitably, with these dates in mind, the repertoire invites comparison with the towering influence of Marais, the eclectic Forqueray, and user-friendly Boismortier. In fact, these full-scale duos are a demanding must for the encouragement of self-sufficiency for serious gamba players. The six sonatas interweave sonatas da chiesa and da camera, infiltrate Italianate movements with accompanying dances, and seamlessly alternate melodic and harmonic functions for the two instruments.

This disc finishes the Nymphs cycle, with equally stunning results. These 12 sonatas for two violas da Gamba are some of the most original and esoteric works you could ever ask for–incredibly brief, but haunting duet suites filled with gorgeous lyricism and counterpoint, and bearing the influence of German, Italian, and French composing techniques. Schenck (1660-c. 1712) may have been a Dutch court composer, but it sounds as though he heard his share of Marais; just like the better-known French composer, he showcases the singing quality and tonal range of the da Gamba with incredible effectiveness. Susie Napper and Margaret Little, members of Les Voix Humaines, deliver stirring performances on these last six sonatas.