Several of the composers presented on this CD were employed by the Basilica of San Marco in Venice, often working as both singers as well as instrumentalists. Dario Castello worked in Venice during the first half of the 17th century. He produced two collections of sonatas which were published in Venice in 1621 and 1629, and some of these are performed here by the specialist period music group Caecilia-Concert. The recording also includes pieces by Castello’s contemporaries Frescobaldi, Bertoli, Scarani, Picchi and Marini.

Dario Castello’s sonatas are a reflection of the “stilo moderno” style of composing, with varying tempi and dramatic changes of affect. They also contain virtuosic passagework for each instrument. There were numerous reprints of Castello’s music, including one in Antwerp, indicating the popularity and continuing influence of his compositions.

Caecilia-Concert is a versatile instrumental ensemble specialising in the research and performance of 17th century music for instruments and voices. Its individual members hold prominent positions in several of the leading period instrument ensembles, including the Amsterdam Baroque Orchestra and The English Baroque Soloists. The groups previous recordings for Challenge Classics include the CDs “Treasury of a Saint” (CC72161), and “Buxtehude & Co.” (CC72179).