Caldara: Cello Sonatas

Whilst the name of Antonio Caldara is unfortunately somewhat of a rarity on the programmes of today’s recital halls and opera houses, the eminent English musician Charles Avison had no hesitation in describing the Italian as a composer “...whose works have been thoroughly proved and have stood the never failing test of time”. Born in Venice in 1670, Caldara had a desirable musical education, not only being the son of a violinist but also gaining a place as a chorister at St Mark’s Basilica, where also he received instrumental tuition at the ‘cello and keyboard from the most illustrious Venetian musicians of the day. Whilst an abundance of insights into the composer are available to us through his many large-scale works for the stage, it is perhaps of significant interest that we see, through these sonatas, the original creative roots of the musician from Venice, composing these sonatas for his own instrument, the ‘cello. These are certainly treasures of the solo ‘cello repertoire, holding a valued place amongst any collection of fine baroque chamber music, and we must furthermore hope that public recognition of this distinguished composer will grow in affection through these exquisite works.