This new release from Brilliant Classics features Vivaldi’s complete Cello Sonatas on period instruments. Antonio Vivaldi was one of the first composers to feature the cello, then a relatively new instrument, as a mature solo instrument. This new release contains the six sonatas for cello and basso continuo. Vivaldi displays an astonishing variety and inventiveness in these works, using the instrument’s possibilities to the utmost; these sonatas still offer a serious challenge, both technical and musical, for any professional cellist. Apart from that they are vintage Vivaldi, they also feature an enormous range of emotional extremes, from deep heartfelt sadness to infectious joy. These are performances on period instruments by one of the leading cellists in this field, Francesco Galligioni. Galligioni is the solo cellist of the Venice Baroque Orchestra led by Andrea Marcon, and has recorded for Archiv/DH and other prestigious labels. Federico Guglielmo, the Early Music veteran, inspires his L’Arte dell’Arco to brilliant and passionate playing.