The collection of six sonatas by Jan Dismas Zelenka is composed- with the exception of the third sonata that includes the violin- for a pair of oboes, bassoon, and basso continuo. In the context of Baroque chamber music, this represents a true rarity. Here, Zelenka elevates the sonata da camera to a genre of enormous technical difficulty for the performers, making great demands especially on the wind players, and the composer confronts his listeners with a most intimate personal statement. Zelenka’s sonatas are exceptional works in the repertoire of Baroque chamber music, but because of their great difficulty, they appear only occasionally in concert programmes. Recordings of these sonatas are equally rare. The last complete recording of all six sonatas on historical instruments was made over twenty years ago by Ensemble Zefiro in 1993, so this new recording by the Prague-based ensemble Collegium 1704, known for their excellent Zelenka interpretations and recordings, has been eagerly awaited.

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REVIEW:

This recording present flowing performances of pieces that in their extent, intricacy, and near-constant blowing must surely test the breath and lips of even the best wind players. Sonata No. 5 stands out for its Vivaldian energy and light; bassoonist Jane Gower shows impressive rat-a-tat virtuosity here, while the work;s stronger formal clarity draws from the group a more vivid response to structure and shape.

Violinist Helen Zemanova ably steps in for one of the oboes in Sonata No.3, bringing the sound a new and altered focus. These are pleasant performances, unhurried and full of expertise.

– Gramophone