Sei Sonate O Partite

 Though his output was modest, German composer AugustKühnel (1645 - ca.1700) was nonetheless the most importantmaster of the bass viol in Germany in his day. Most of Kühnel's compositions are in manuscript form. The only exceptions are his Sonate ò Partite ad una ò dueviole da gamba, con il basso continuo, (sonatas or partitasfor one or two viols with continuo) which are performed byConsort Les Voix humaines on this new ATMA recording. Originally dedicated to Kühnel's employer, this collectionof pieces would have been appropriate either for princelydining rooms or amateur gatherings. The collection's title is also surprising, suggesting that eachpiece may be considered either a sonata or a partita. With it's demands that the viol excel both in playing melodyand harmony, Kühnel's collection magnificently blendsthe Italian, French, and German styles, and shows that thecomposer was an elegant and sensitive virtuoso.