RV531 follows which is the only one originally written for two cellos and was at a lower level of inspiration than the first piece. The success of an arrangement is surely not to feel the instrumentation is incorrect and this is the case here. The playing, throughout, is very accomplished and sensitive and very well captured by the engineers. If one had doubts as to arranging the distinctive sound of mandolins to cellos then these are dispelled immediately. The disc begins with RV532 and this sets the high standard for what is to come. The disc has an added distinction, as sadly it will be Julian Lloyd Webber’s last recording due to a neck injury. It was delightful therefore to receive this disc for review and to have my original very positive impression endorsed. I had the good fortune to hear the first concerto RV532, arranged from one for two mandolins, on Radio 3 and was very impressed. Julian & Jiaxin Lloyd Webber (cello) European Union ChamberOrchestra/Hans-Peter Hofmann Music Web December 2014 Vivaldi Concertos for Two CellosĬoncertos for two Cellos, RV 531, plus various arrs by J Lloyd Webber

Vivaldi double cello concerto