Classic FM Magazine

The period instrument Avison Ensemble exists to perform the music of the forgotten English composer Charles Avison of whose works these two CDs of charming concerti grossi are but a small proportion. For a long time he was known for a popular organ piece Sound the Loud Timbrel , a gentle pastoral included here in the Concerto in B flat, op. 9 no. 8.

The ensemble performs it with simplicity, freshness and lovingly tended, authentic ornaments sighing into cadences. The concerti tumble out like pristine toys from a long-locked cupboard. Pavlo Beznosiuk leads with a decisive bow that seems to sing ‘injustice’ for Avison’s inexplicable neglect. ****

—Rick Jones