The Art Of The Duo
Hunnia, 2025
9/10
A live album that explores the evolution of chamber music for violin in the 18th century, Francesco Pio Bertozzi and Giuseppe Pio Bertozzi, i.e. I Musici Gemelli, come together for 5 meticulous and timeless selections.
“Duo Concertante No. 2, Op. 29”, by G.B. Viotti, opens the listen with string interaction that emits much grace and adventurousness across the 3 segments, and “Duo Concertante No. 3”, also by Viotti, follows with a heartfelt and elegant delivery of meticulous string prowess.
In the middle, “Duo No. 6, Op. 14” tugs on the heartstrings thanks to B. Campagnoli’s emotive vision, while “Duo for Two Violins” spotlights tremendous and intricate playing that’s sublime and captivating via the F. Geminiani selection.
The last tune, “Suite for Two Violins, "Gulliver's Travels"“, is a more animated moment, as the pair illustrate a rare and exciting chemistry.
The sound quality here is excellent, and the execution flawless. The focus on Italian composers is much appreciated, and the never recorded sonata by Geminiani alone is worth the price of admission, especially for those with an ear for classical sounds.
Travels well with: Miró Quartet/Kiera Duffy- Ginastera String Quartets; Nathan Davis- Earthworks