Sandrine Cantoreggi - Pietro Antonio Locatelli (2003) [DSD64] DSF + HDTracks

Surprisingly enough, it is the orchestra — not the soloist — that is of primary enjoyment on this CD. The Latvian ensemble proves that though its name may be relatively unknown to U.S. audiences, it certainly should be. Its playing is extremely precise in every domain possible — articulation, intonation, dynamics — and the recorded sound quality is exceptionally warm and full. Cantoreggi’s playing is two-sided. While playing lower in her instrument’s range and in combination with the orchestra, her sound is pleasing enough and intonation is as solid as the orchestra’s.

The solo cadenzas and capriccios, which find the violin in the stratosphere of its range, show a more strained, shrill, and out-of-tune side to Cantoreggi’s playing. Since it is this bravura demonstration that is supposed to enthrall listeners, Cantoreggi’s struggles with it to make this album a less-than-ideal choice. Others (most notably Carmignola) have shown us that it is possible to play Locatelli’s fiendish masterworks with ease and warmth.


Ms. Cantoreggi, who hails from Luxembourg, plays a rare 18th century violin provided by the Banque Internationale à Luxembourg - BIL. She has selected for her program three illustrative concertos from a set of 12 concertos and 24 caprices by the 17th/18th-century violin virtuoso and composer Locatelli.He performed all the noted Italian composers of the time but broke some new grounds with his collection The Art of the Violin. No one before him had advanced the virtuosity quite as far nor explored the highest reaches of the instrument’s pitch range. His imagination and innovation was unique and Cantoreggi obviously feels in perfect tune with his music. This is not just more of the same Vivaldi or Corelli; Locatelli in this violinist’s hands is something very special. I found this the most enjoyable Baroque program I have heard in ages, and the detailed sonics and surround acoustics don’t hurt the impression a bit. Highly recommended.--John Sunier "Audiophile Audition"