Although a nobleman by birth, Benedetto Marcello was also a serious amateur composer
who wrote in many of the principal genres of his day. This compilation focuses on the
Italian’s 12 concertos for strings Op.1 and 5 Sinfonias – two delightful collections dating
from the latter half of his dilettante career.

The sets demonstrate just how innovative a composer Marcello was. Written in 1708 and
featuring a solo cello as well as violin part, Op.1 is particularly notable for its inclusion
of the former instrument – which, having only just been invented, was a relatively new
addition to the Venetian orchestra at that time. With the number of movements varying
from one concerto to the other and thus reflecting a form still in its infancy, the collection
also displays originality through details like No.7’s extraordinary use of F minor. Such
inventive quirks more than make up for its lack of virtuosity and form an important part of
the 5 Sinfonias which follow – the dramatic stop-start opening of No.3 being a particular
case in point.

Marcello’s older brother is reputed to have said that Benedetto had only mediocre talent.
Given the wealth of musical invention in this recording, however, he was entirely wrong. An
absorbing release that documents the early development of two important forms and sees
the welcome return of Angelo Ephrikian’s ensemble.