The devil is in the detail, as the saying goes, and even though Bach is one of the most played and recorded composers in history, it is rare to hear performances of his compositions that display sufficient sensitivity to the rhetorical eloquence that is at their foundation. It is therefore a great pleasure to encounter this recording by Monica Huggett and Sonnerie, as the group makes Bach’s music truly come to life with imagination, expressiveness and enviable virtuosity.

The CD opens with a burst of energy—the Concerto for Violin in D minor (a reconstruction of the Harpsichord Concerto BWV 1052) features Vivaldian passage-work, Italian bariolage technique, and ripieno violins in unison (reminiscent of the Italian-influenced Handel), all performed with an excellent sense of momentum, phrasing, articulation, and—when called for—lyricism.  Huggett’s impassioned violin playing is beyond reproach in its intonation and ease of execution, while the rest of the ensemble complements the musical texture with a considerable level of musicianship and skill.

The Adagio of the Violin Concerto in G minor (BWV 1056) is especially worth mentioning for the beauty of phrasing in the solo violin line and wonderfully atmospheric accompaniment created by pizzicato strings and the harpsichord imitating the sound of the lute. The last two concertos on the recording, BWV 1042 and BWV 1041, stir powerful emotions with their austere openings and effective improvisatory slow middle movements, while the brilliant perpetuum mobile finales cause the listener to wish that the music could indeed go on and on.  Highly recommended! ŽAK OZMO