Francesco Barsanti: 6 Sonatas Op.2 – Roberto Loreggian

Francesco Barsanti (1690-1775) was an Italian composer and flutist. Born in Lucca, he moved to London around 1714, where he worked as a performer and composer. Barsanti became closely associated with the musical circles of the Scottish and English aristocracy, particularly through his arrangements of Scottish folk tunes. His works reflect a synthesis of Italian and British musical traditions, blending expressive melodies with intricate counterpoint. Among his most important compositions are the Sonatas Opus 2, a collection of twelve sonatas for a melody instrument and basso continuo, published in 1738. These works are characterized by elegant phrasing, contrasting movements, and refined ornamenta- tion. The Opus 2 sonatas, likely intended for flute or violin, follow the typical Baroque structure, often with alternating slow and fast movements, emphasizing both expressi- ve depth and virtuosic brilliance, fusing Italianate lyricism with the more structured and reserved English taste of the period. Played by a selection of the finest Early Music specialists of Italy: Francesco Padovani (flute), Andrea Mion (Baroque oboe), Federico Guglielmo (violin), Francesco Galligioni (Baroque cello) and Roberto Loreggian (harpsichord), together forming the Ensemble ConSerto Musico.