The works on this disc are predominantly Trio Sonatas, composed in the early to middle eighteenth century. The trio sonata was the most popular (and profitable) musical form of that time, perfectly designed for the amateur market. Requiring three or four players, it is ideal for the convivial social occasion. Unlike the solo sonata, it does not tempt any single musician to show off, since all parts are more or less equal (an exception on this CD is the Trio Sonata by the Pla brothers, where both oboists are expected to display their virtuosity).

In general, a trio sonata might be performed by cultured and more or less skilled friends as a leisure actuivity; or it might be played by a noble person's court musicians - cheaply, considering the limited person-power demanded - with only m'lord and m'lady as non-participating witnesses; or it might form part of the repertoire at one of the many musical societies' evenings - an accademia in Italy, a collegium musicum in Germany, a philharmonick club in England.
Copyright Stephen Pettit 2002


Press Comment
"It is clear from this excellently produced CD why they are prize winners in both Japan and Europe ... The playing by La Fontaine throughout this disc is elegant and beautifully balanced, and in the fast movements they display brilliant control, enviable technique and joyous music making."
Jane Woolfenden, Double Reed News (UK)

"... exuberant ... including a startlingly showy Trio Sonata for oboes by the Catalan Pla brothers."
Anthony Burton, BBC Music Magazine