Reviewed by Steven Whitehead

A glance in my biographical dictionary tells us that Fiocco was born in Brussels to a Venetian father and, in his short life, Joseph-Hector came to be considered the most important Flemish composer of the first half of the 18th century. Do not let this faint praise put you off. The examples on this budget disc (a lengthy Mass and two motets) show Fiocco’s style to full advantage. He writes a good melody and some of the harmonies really do catch the ear. Had he lived more than his 38 years Fiocco may have become a noted European composer rather than merely a Belgian one. The performance by Capella Brugensis and Collegium Instrumentale Brugense, conducted by Patrick Peire with seven different soloists, all from Belgium, is obviously a labour of love. Readers from Belgium will want this recording. The rest of us should take advantage of the bargain price and have a listen too.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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