The 18th century Republic of the Seven United Provinces of the Netherlands served as a magnet attracting musicians from throughout Europe. It was one of the wealthiest of European countries, the fortunes amassed in the previous century - the Golden Age - could now safely be spent, and culture was an obvious choice. Many composers from abroad either visited the Netherlands or settled there permanently, such as Antonio Locatelli. It comes as no surprise that composers, both Dutch and foreign, were influenced by the great instrumental tradition brought by the Italians, and the Concerto form flourished, both as Concerto Grosso and Solo Concerto.

This set presents a wealth of concertos by Dutch or Dutch-based composers: Pieter Hellendaal, Graaf Unico Wilhelm van Wassenaer (whose Concerti Armonici were formerly attributed to Pergolesi!), Johann Schickhardt, Anton Solnitz, Willem de Fesch, Albertus Groneman and Conrad Hurlebusch: music of high quality, written in the best Italian traditions of Corelli, Locatelli and Geminiani.

Excellent performances in Historically Informed Performance style by Dutch groups Combattimento Consort conducted by Jan Willem de Vriend and Musica Ad Rhenum, conducted by Jed Wentz, who is also a traverso soloist.

A collection compiled from the rich back catalogue of NM Classics, the label for Dutch music.