Lena Neudauer performs Rosetti with fire and elegance

This release presents three of the nine violin concertos of Antonio Rosetti. Rosetti was a contemporary of Haydn and Mozart.

And in his day, considered their equal -- if not better -- in popularity. Over half of his 400 works were printed during his lifetime and sold quite well. 

Rosetti is also credited with improving the concerto form. He updated it from Baroque models. And his concertos became the model for others.

The three concertos on this release date from around 1783-1790. To the casual listener, they can resemble those of Mozart and Haydn. But there are differences. 

Rosetti tended to write very expansive first movements. He gave the orchestra plenty to do before the soloist took over. 

Also, he experimented with the role of the soloist. In the Violin Concerto in D major, C7:iii;7, the second movement plays against expectations. The solo violin comments on the orchestra's melodies, rather than taking the lead. 

Lena Neudauer gives some impressive performances. This world-class artist has technique to spare. She plays Rosetti's most difficult passages with effortless fluidity. And her phrasing is impeccable. 

Rosetti is a Classical Era composer. Elegant balance is the aesthetic, and Neudauer delivers. Her playing has energy and fire,  tempered with refinement and a light touch. 

These are fine compositions given engaging performances. Two great reasons for me to recommend this release.

Antonio Rosetti: Three Violin Concertos
Lena Neudauer, violin
Südwestdeutsches Kammerorchester Pforzheim; Johannes Moesus, conductor
CPO