Concerti per una vita

Théotime Langlois de Swarte’s latest release, “Vivaldi – Concerti per una vita,” presents a captivating exploration of Antonio Vivaldi’s instrumental works, showcasing the violinist’s profound understanding of the composer’s oeuvre and his commitment to expressing the inherent vocal qualities within Vivaldi’s concertos. 

In the accompanying booklet, de Swarte articulates his fascination with the emotive power of slow movements in Vivaldi’s compositions. This thematic focus on “vocality” becomes the guiding force throughout the album, with de Swarte’s interpretations emphasizing the singing quality of the violin. This unique perspective becomes particularly evident in the slow movements, which emerge as standout highlights in an extensive program that seamlessly blends world premieres, established works, and compositions by Vivaldi’s contemporaries. 

Collaborating with musicologist Olivier Fourés, de Swarte and the Le Consort ensemble assert that this recording completes the repertoire of all Vivaldi’s instrumental music discovered to date. The album’s strength lies in its diversity, featuring a range of world premiere recordings alongside well-known pieces like an intriguing early draft of the summer concerto from The Four Seasons (RV 315). 

Clocking in at around 2.5 hours, the album’s length might seem imposing, but it successfully avoids monotony through a rich tapestry of styles and textures. The use of various ensemble sizes, from intimate solos to full orchestral arrangements, contributes to a dynamically engaging listening experience. 

De Swarte’s virtuosity is unquestionable, evident throughout the album. However, it is his sensitive and nuanced approach that truly sets him apart. His violin produces a beautifully singing tone, bringing out the inherent lyricism of Vivaldi’s melodies. De Swarte’s phrasing is natural and inevitable, perfectly capturing the musical style without unnecessary embellishments. In particular, the Largo from RV 37a stands out, showcasing de Swarte’s mastery alongside the superb continuo group. 

The choice of gut strings and period-appropriate bows adds another layer to the interpretation, creating a warm and nuanced sound that complements the music’s essence. The tempos are lively but never rushed, allowing the compositions to unfold naturally. The pacing of the slow movements is thoughtful, avoiding any sense of dragging. 

Harmonia Mundi’s recording deserves praise for its warm and natural sound, effectively capturing the rich timbres of the instruments and the subtle nuances of de Swarte’s performance. “Vivaldi – Concerti per una vita” stands as a masterful journey through time, a testament to the violinist’s profound artistry and commitment to the expressive potential of Vivaldi’s music.