Hyperion Records

This work, whose original key is G major, belongs in a manuscript collection in the Hessian State Library at Darmstadt. All the music in it dates from Telemann’s Frankfurt period, 1712 to 1721. The opening Vivace is an animated movement in 12/8 measure. Two thematic ideas converse with one another; the first is introduced by the violin whilst the second, more lyrical idea is presented by treble recorder and oboe. The contrast afforded by Telemann’s interweaving of these two elements is both interesting and effective.

The gentle Grave has some lyrical effects as, for example, the limpid dotted quaver motif in which the three melody instruments enter in imitation; but the opening melodic statement, in crotchets, is also attractive, with opportunities for embellishment. The Allegro finale, in binary form, begins with a lively unison motif in the three upper instrumental parts, followed at one bar’s interval by the bass. This is a forward-looking movement which brings the quartet to a vigorous conclusion.

from notes by Nicholas Anderson © 2002