Various Composers - Viola Concertos from Berlin (Johannes Pramsohler; Ensemble Diderot)

Information

• Johann Gottlieb Graun - Viola Concerto in E-Flat Major, GraunWV Cv:XIII:116
• Markus Heinrich Grauel - Viola Concerto in C Major
• Ignaz Mara - Viola Concerto in E-Flat Major
• Karl Hermann Heinrich Benda - Viola Concerto in F Major
• Markus Heinrich Grauel - Viola Concerto in E-Flat Major

Johannes Pramsohler, viola & direction

Ensemble Diderot

Date: 2026

Label: Audax Records

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In the third volume of its Berlin Concertos series, Ensemble Diderot highlights the viola's prominent role in Enlightenment Berlin's thriving concerto culture. Featuring four world-premiere recordings played on period instruments, the album challenges historical perceptions of the viola as a background accompaniment, presenting it instead as a virtuosic solo instrument of exceptional emotional and dramatic breadth. Director Johannes Pramsohler leads the ensemble while performing the solo viola parts, seamlessly blending rigorous historical research with compelling artistry. Enhanced by original cadenzas from harpsichordist Philippe Grisvard, this release revitalizes forgotten masterpieces and illuminates a key chapter in European musical history.

Ensemble Diderot is one of Europe’s leading period-instrument chamber music groups, widely praised for its tonal warmth, precision, and stylistic authority. Founded and led by violinist Johannes Pramsohler and based in Paris, the ensemble specializes in Baroque chamber repertoire, particularly trio sonatas and larger ensemble works of the 17th and 18th centuries. Renowned for its cohesion and scholarly approach, Ensemble Diderot performs regularly at major international venues and festivals and has held residencies across Europe. Its award-winning recordings are considered benchmark interpretations, and the ensemble is also active in rediscovering and publishing previously unknown repertoire.