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The sound-world of this disc is instantly charming and relaxing, with some wonderfully phrased playing in the opening Adagio of the C major concerto. Scored, like many of the other concertos on this disc, for recorder, two violins and continuo, it lies somewhere between chamber and orchestral music; the forces are small but the overall effect is of a lightly scored orchestra. The contrapuntal writing in the fugal second movement is effective and contrasting, the performers providing an energetic response to the music. The ensuing Adagio once again demonstrates the musicality of the recorder playing, before a final Allegro concludes the work.
 
The works on this disc are all relatively short and comprised of between three and five brief movements. The Canadian performers that form Les Boréades have an elegance of style that is both appropriate and dignified. Their enthusiasm for the repertoire is instantly infectious, and the production standards on the disc are high. Founded in 1991 by Francis Colpron, Les Boréades are based in Montreal and have performed in North America and Europe. Their style of performance is based on period practice, and, as is clear from this recording, they make the music sound fresh and spontaneous.
 
Providing an interlude to the concerto style, the Sinfonia for recorder and continuo is well presented, with the simplification of forces giving the effect of adding space to the music and clearing the aural palate. I have often found the recorder lacking in variety; in some quarters it has never quite thrown off the stigma of a toy instrument for primary school children. Not so here, though. The musicality of the performance ensures that interest is maintained, and the sound that Colpron produces is beautifully expressive.
 
Contrast is provided again with a return to the Concerto and larger forces, this time with the organ providing variety to the continuo sound. The effect of using the organ in place of harpsichord is quite marked, and the whole feel of the work is different.
 
The Sonata for three recorders [tracks 19-21] opens with a wonderful sound, the three recorders blending well with the organ continuo to form a choir-like sound. The players match each other well, and the effect is spectacular.
 
I also particularly enjoyed the Andante first movement of the Concerto No. 21 [track 22] at just over 5 minutes duration, this is the longest track on the disc. Compositionally, this Concerto seemed stronger than some of the other works, with rewarding evolving dissonances and a wonderful rhythmic sense in the later movements.
 
The F major Concerto includes technical displays in the faster movements, performed with characteristic sprightly energy and a sense of ease. Some conversational sections emerge between the violin and solo recorder in the last movement, performed with charm and conviction.
 
The final Concerto, Number 9 in A minor, is a five movement work which concludes the disc with the same customary poise, elegance and artistry as we have by now become accustomed to from these fine performers.
 
Carla Rees
 

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