Reviewed by John Irvine

If it ain't baroque, don't fix it. . . There are such a large number recordings of baroque music available it is difficult to distinguish one recording from another and they all end up much of a muchness with the same selections. This disc, thankfully, is different, focusing on only two composers active in England in the late 17th and early 18th centuries. Purcell and Handel both composed in the Italian style, both were appointed to the Court by the monarch of the day, and both had musical connections with Oxford. They both had a very significant influence on the course and development of English classical music and remain firm favourites with a great many people - myself included, I have to admit! In addition to the 'standards' of "The Queen Of Sheba", "The Water Music" and the suite for trumpet in D Major (Handel), we also have Purcell's suite from "The Fairy Queen", a real barnstormer in its day. Tim Hawes' solo playing is very clear, precise and sure. Whether or not you like his tone, or that of the Oxford Orchestra, will probably depend upon whether you're a diehard modernist or a diehard authenticist (original instruments, scoring and speeds). Despite some very good performances, this disc doesn't quite have enough sparkle or originality to save it from sinking beneath the piles of all the other baroque releases. Nevertheless, a very good beginner disc if you want to go for baroque. (Two puns in one review, eh?)

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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