Manfredini: 12 Concerti, Op. 3

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Baroque music with Francesco Onofrio Manfredini's "12 Concerti, Op. 3." Released on March 14, 2000, this album is a testament to Manfredini's mastery of the concerto grosso form, a genre he helped popularize following his studies under the renowned Arcangelo Corelli. The album, spanning a duration of 1 hour and 18 minutes, is a collection of twelve concertos, each offering a unique blend of emotional depth and technical brilliance.

Performed by the esteemed ensemble Les Amis De Philippe, under the direction of Ludger Rémy, this recording is a vivid portrayal of Manfredini's innovative spirit and his significant contributions to the Baroque era. The concertos, ranging from the lively and energetic to the serene and contemplative, showcase Manfredini's ability to evoke a wide range of emotions through his music.

The album opens with the Concerto grosso in F Major, Op. 3 No. 1, and concludes with the Concerto Grosso in C Major, Op. 3 No. 12, also known as "Per Il Santissimo Natale." This final concerto, with its pastoral themes and festive spirit, is a fitting conclusion to a remarkable journey through the world of Manfredini's concertos.

Recorded by the German label CPO, this album is a must-listen for any enthusiast of Baroque music. It offers a rare opportunity to experience the works of a composer who, while not as widely recognized as some of his contemporaries, made significant contributions to the development of the concerto grosso and left an indelible mark on the history of classical music.