Comprised of four violin concertos written by Antonio Vivaldi in 1723, The Four Seasons is probably the Baroque composer's best-known work. Each of the four concerti is based on a sonnet —supposedly written by Vivaldi himself. Each sonnet is divided into three sections (fast, slow, fast), which correspond with the three movements in each concerto. Read the 'Summer' sonnet and listen to each movement of The Four Seasons, Concerto No. 2 in G minor, Op. 8, RV 315, 'L'estate' (Summer)
Concerto No.2 in G minor RV315 'Summer' 3rd MovementFrom Nigel Kennedy's live concert 'a la Citadelle', 2005, Francewith the Polish Chamber Orchesra© Not owned. The 25th anniversary edition of the best-selling recording that propelled Nigel Kennedy to stardom. Classic FM Drive Featured Album, 1 September 2014. Nigel Kennedy’s version of The Four Seasons sold more than three million copies, entering the record books as the best-selling classical recording ever. Vivaldi: The Four Seasons (25th Anniversary Edition CD and DVD) Nigel Kennedy (Artist) Format: Audio CD. Nigel Kennedy's recording was released on September 25, 1989 on vinyl, cassette and CD and went on to become one of the best-selling classical albums of all-time. Originally recorded in November 1986 in the Church of St John-at-Hackney.
SUMMER SONNET
1st Movement ('Summer') Allegro non molto
Under the harsh season's blazing sun, men and flocks languish and pines are scorched. We hear the call of the cuckoo, followed by sweet songs of the turtle dove and finch. Gentle western breezes blow...until the ominous north winds suddenly sweep them away. The little shepherd sobs in fear of the violent storm...and his destiny.
Nigel Kennedy - Vivaldi 'Summer' 1st Movement:
2nd Movement ('Summer') Adagio e piano - Presto e forte
His tired limbs are roused from rest, frightened by the lightning bolts and roaring thunder, as flies and gnats swarm furiously.
Nigel Kennedy: Vivaldi 'Summer' 2nd Movement:
3rd Movement ('Summer') Presto
Alas, his worst fears are realized, as huge hailstones fall from the roaring heavens, cutting the heads from the proudly standing grain.
Nigel Kennedy Vivaldi Four Seasons Cd
Gidon Kremer: Vivaldi 'Summer' 3rd Movement:
The Four Seasons Vivaldi Violin
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