Davina Clarke & Tom Foster - J. S. Bach: The Art of Obligato (2024) [Hi-Res]

Davina Clarke writes: The journey towards The Art of Obligato began with a deep-rooted passion for historically informed performance and an enduring friendship among a group of musicians.

The decision to delve into Bach's esteemed cantatas was not one I thought could be taken lightly. It required a drawing together of lifelong musical experiences, especially those gained from the creative process of preparing, recording, and launching my frst album, Sweet Stillness. This album laid the necessary foundations and emerged as a precursor to the musical exploration of Bach's cantata arias. As a violinist with a lifelong love for singing, the desire to explore the interplay between vocal and instrumental lines, particularly through the use of obligato, became a driving force for me behind this project. In Bach's cantata arias, the obligato instruments take on a pivotal role, engaging in a musical dialogue with the vocal line. This relationship, characterised by intricate interweaving melodies, imitation, and embellishment, enriches the texture of the music, showcasing Bach's mastery in crafting compelling musical narratives. The genesis of this album traces back to formative experiences, including collaborations with the English Baroque Soloists under the direction of Sir John Eliot Gardiner. It was during these encounters that the seeds were planted for both Sweet Stillness and The Art of Obligato. The profound infuence of Gardiner's mentorship, coupled with my innate afnity for the obligato style, laid the groundwork for the exploration of Bach's repertoire.