Johann Sebastian Bach - Brandenburg Concertos Nos. 2, 3 & 5 (Laurence Cummings)

Information

Composer: Johann Sebastian Bach

• Brandenburg Concerto No. 2 in F Major, BWV 1047
• Brandenburg Concerto No. 3 in G Major, BWV 1048
• Brandenburg Concerto No. 5 in D Major, BWV 1050

Academy of Ancient Music

Laurence Cummings, conductor

Date: 2025

Label: AAM Records

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Bach’s six Brandenburg Concertos (composed around 1711–20 and dedicated in 1721 to Margrave Christian Ludwig of Brandenburg) are landmark examples of the Baroque concerto grosso. Each work balances an unusually large group of soloists with a small orchestra, creating rich, varied textures. The First Concerto is almost symphonic, with solo roles for violin, oboes, bassoon, and horns. The Second features a famously demanding trumpet part alongside recorder, oboe, and violin. The Third uses trios of violins, violas, and cellos; the Fourth highlights two flutes and violin; the Fifth pairs flute and violin with a prominent harpsichord; and the Sixth omits violins entirely, focusing on lower strings.

Laurence Cummings (b. 1968) is a leading British conductor and harpsichordist, widely recognised for his expertise in historical performance and especially the music of Handel. He is Music Director of the Academy of Ancient Music and the Orquestra Barroca Casa da Música in Porto, and previously led both the Göttingen Handel Festival and the London Handel Festival. Known for stylish, expressive opera interpretations, he has conducted major productions across Europe and worked with many prominent stage directors. Equally active in concert work, he appears with major period and modern orchestras worldwide. His extensive discography includes releases on BIS, Sony, Harmonia Mundi, Chandos, and Accent.

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