Giovanni Picchi (1572-1643) was a well-regarded keyboard master in his hometown of Venice, with speciality in dance music played on the harpsichord. His “Canzoni da sonar con ogni sorte d’istromenti” (1625) is a set of 19 pieces for a combination of instruments popular in the city, including string, wind, and brass instruments in different combinations. According to the Arcana label, this is the first recording of the complete set.
With the progression of the collection, more and more instruments are added, which makes it grow in size and volume organically and makes for an enjoyable listen in one sit. The influence of Giovanni Gabrieli’s harmonic and rhythmic language is evident throughout, mainly centred around basic harmonic progression, with dotted rhythms for the dance sections.
Nothing is basic or simplistic about the performance, though. Concerto Scirocco, lead by dulcian and recorder player Giulia Genini, manage to project wonderful diversity of sound and maintain interest as the music flows. Solo players’ ornamentations are done with good taste, never turn the attention to themselves.
I especially liked the balance and modesty of the continuo group, including a soft organ that gives the music a delicate but strong base to stand on. In the final three compositions, the brass, violins, winds and continuo form a superb early Baroque ensemble. Throughout this album, the polyphony is heard clearly without being clinical, and the players have a special way of playing short and long notes to distinguish each phrase.
Picchi is presented on record, if at all, in short segments on early Baroque collections, so this new complete set is a revelation to anyone who is interested in this period. Intimately recorded on two locations, and combined with eye-opening articles by Genini and Rodolfo Baroncini, about the historical context of the composer and his music, along with a detailed explanation of each composition. An illuminating release.
Giovanni Picchi – Canzoni da Sonar con Ogni Sorte D’istromenti
Concerto Scirocco
Giulia Genini – Dulcian and recorders, conductor
Arcana / Outhere Music, CD A476
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