Sonata in A Minor, Van. 4
Sonata in C Major, Van. 2
Sonata in B-flat Major, Van. 6
Concerto in D Major, Van. 5
Sonata in C Major, Van. 1
Sonata in B-flat Major, Van. 3
Sonata in E Major, Van. 7

In Antonio Vandini: Complete Works, cellist Elinor Frey and Passacaille Records present the six sonatas and one concerto of one of the most noteworthy and fascinating Italian cellist-composers of the 18th century. Antonio Vandini’s works span from 1717 in Venice (just a few years before he taught at the La Pieta school alongside the legendary Vivaldi) to about the 1750s when his last sonatas were written (probably as he toured the world with his musical partner, the famous violinist, Giuseppe Tartini).

Captivated by Vandini’s ability to draw out some of the finest qualities of the cello by expertly blending both lyricism and virtuosity, Frey, cellist-musicologist Marc Vanscheeuwijck, and gambist Patxi Montero together explored Vandini’s particular playing techniques.

As shown in drawings, portraits, and eye-witness accounts, Vandini was one of the last remaining cellists to continue to use an underhand bow technique. Harpsichordist Federica Bianchi joined the team for the recording, held at the at the Sala della Carita, a short walk from the St-Antonio Basilica in Padua where Vandini spent most of his musical life.

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Recorded at the Sala della Carita, Padua (IT), 26–28 September 2019. Instruments: Cello: Karl Dennis, 2017 (after Stradivari 1708), Jules Boulangeot, 1927 (after Stradivari 1711); Harpsichord: Florindo Gazzola, 1992 (copy from Veneto, 17th c.).