ABC 481 0348
(This review appeared in the Dec 2013 edition of Fine Music magazine.)
Whilst being the resident orchestra for the annual Pinchgut Opera production, the Orchestra of the Antipodes, has forged a significant reputation in the early music landscape. The ensemble’s recording output has captured much of the repertoire of the period, and continues to engage audiences in this country.
This latest offering includes selections of instrumental music from Purcell’s opera The Fairy Queen (written in 1692), Mozart’s Idomeneo (1780), Rameau’s Dardanus (1739), and Charpentier’s David et Jonathas (1688).
As well, there are movements from Bach’s Brandenburg Concertos Nos 2-5, and Sinfonias from his Cantatas, BWV 21, 29 and 182.
This orchestra is true to the period demands (famous for its use of authentic instruments), as well as different tunings as appropriate to the time. Under the direction of (primarily) Antony Walker, Erin Helyard, Anna McDonald, and Neal Peres Da Costa, the orchestra achieves a vitality and energy which burst forth on every track.
Its use of harpsichord, fortepiano, lutes, and various early style percussion instruments, along with an array of string, woodwind and brass (some from the time, and others reproduction) instruments, make this an incredibly interesting sound pallete.
What is ever-present on this recording is the musicians’ willingness to dig deep into the soul of the 17th and 18th centuries. Not a single track is without interest, as the energy does not wane for one moment.