Corelli, Hndel: Sonty – CD

This classical CD presents Handel and Corelli sonatas performed by the young Czech virtuoso Michaela Koudelkov, whose playing combines lightness, vitality, bravura and an intoxicatingly rich sound. A winner of the Tel Aviv Recorder Competition and a finalist in the York Early Music International Young Artists Competition in England, Koudelkov has also appeared in solo recitals at events including the prestigious Oude Muziek Festival Utrecht. Her Supraphon debut demonstrates uncompromising technique, outstanding musical sensitivity, stylistic command and the ability to help shape the written music through improvisation. Only one of the sonatas was originally intended for her instrument; the others were written for violin or transverse flute. In keeping with Baroque practice, the recording uses several recorder types, including alto, soprano, the darker-toned voice flute in D and the higher sixth flute. Alongside Handels sonatas, Koudelkov performs three works from Corellis Opus 5, a collection long associated with the art of improvising passaggi in slow movements. Corellis famous Follia provides an impressive and slightly experimental climax. Koudelkov is accompanied by Monika Knoblochov on harpsichord, Libor Maek on Baroque cello, and Jan Kreja on theorbo and Baroque guitar.