On its latest CD the Consortium Classicum presents entertaining Italian serenades by Rossini, Righini, Paisiello, and others. The term “serenade” derives from the Italian word...

On its latest CD the Consortium Classicum presents entertaining Italian serenades by Rossini, Righini, Paisiello, and others. The term “serenade” derives from the Italian word serenata, which designates a musical genre of light, serene and tranquil character but with the potential for brilliance and sparkling wit. They are works of fresh and mirthful character, and Righini’s Serenade for Wind Sextet, here in a world-premier recording, stands out in this department. In contrast to the other sextets on this CD, this work contains demanding passages for the horns, which engage in virtuoso dialogue with the clarinet.