Critiques and Comments

The 2010 Cambridge Summer Series of Baroque Chamber Music Concerts was chosen as "Editor's Choice" by the website Local Secrets, whose classical concerts reviewer was enthusiastic about one of the Wednesday performances of
"Baroque Virtuosi" performed by Maria Sanger and Peter Wells (recorder) with Mary Pells (viola da gamba):

"These programmes mix a small amount of familiar repertoire with appealing, lesser-known works that have been dug up (and sometimes arranged) by the performers; and are highly recommended to locals and visitors alike! Each item was introduced by the engaging and authoritative (Peter) Wells, who put into context the mix of music from seventeenth- and eighteenth-century Italy and England.

The ensemble showed great flair in performing this repertoire. The direct communication between the musicians lent a moving intimacy to Biagio Marini’s Passacaille and Henry Purcell’s ingenious ‘Two in One upon a Ground’. Particularly admirable was the stylish phrasing, and sensitive interplay of the two recorders, and their ‘duo sonata’ by Robert Valentine ... was much enjoyed by the audience. Perhaps the highlight of the programme was the atmospheric slow movement of Alessandro Marcello’s oboe concerto, where the poignant vibrato of the solo ... recorder introduced a new and expressive timbre."

We always like to give members of the audience an enjoyable experience and allow them the opportunity to provide contact details if they wish to receive information about other performances. These contact sheets often come back to us with additional, unsought, comments. We include some here and hope that those who made the comments won't mind:

"I attended a concert of yours in late August - Italian Baroque it was - and loved it ... I am flying back to Cambridge with a friend and would very much like to attend another one." Miss T, France

"We did very much enjoy your concert! What virtuosity. We look forward to coinciding with more." Dr F, Suffolk

"We were enchanted by the glorious music and entertained by (the) lively introductions"
Mr C, Ottawa, Canada

"I do so wish to make full use of the wonderful concerts in the future as well as today of course." Miss H, Cambridge

"Thank you - very enjoyable indeed. Maybe an Australian tour some time soon?"
Mr and Mrs S, Victoria, Australia