London circa 1740: Handels musicians

London in the 1740s was a melting pot of musical influences. Italian music in the form of opera, trio sonatas, concertos, and concerti grossi attracted musicians to the British Isles from all over Europe, some of whom were invited by Handel to join his orchestra of virtuosos. Much of this fascinating and engaging album showcases music by these incredible artists, including sprightly concertos for flute by the Italian Giuseppe Sammartini and German Charles Weideman—as well as music by Handel himself. We also get to hear beautiful arrangements of Scottish airs by composer James Oswald who found huge popularity in London with his volume *A Curious Collection of Scots Tunes*. The ensemble La Rêveuse plays with an infectious energy and lightness of touch.