Description

It was during the 25 years Rosenmüller (1617-1684) spent in Venice that he wrote the most personal and expressive of his instrumental music, which was tinged by Italian sensuality. The 12 Sonate a 2, 3, 4 è 5 stromenti, da arco & altri, which Rosenmüller had almost certainly composed in Venice, constitute the most accomplished of his music.

The title indicates that though other instruments may play them, these pieces are primarily intended for strings. Each sonata consists of from 3 to 12 short sections more or less linked together, and the collection is arranged in increasing order by the number of musicians required; they are written for from 2 to 5 parts, with basso continuo.

Masques is a Montreal–based early music ensemble acclaimed for its expressiveness, the eloquence of its musical interpretations, and the dynamic musical involvement of its members. Founder and Artistic Director Olivier Fortin is increasingly sought after as a soloist and chamber musician. He is active as a recording artist and tours regularly throughout Europe, the United States and Canada with ensembles such as Masques, Capriccio Stravagante and the Tafelmusik Baroque Orchestra.