Five years after the publication of his first book of sonatas, Jean-Marie Leclair, the great exponent of the emerging French violin school, released his second book. He had continued to be influenced by the lyricism and virtuosity of Italian models but, concerned that the technical demands of his writing might prove excessive, ensured that a handful could be played either on the flute or the violin. Yet he continued to make considerable advances and the level of melodic invention and expressive intensity remained untouched.

Together with Naxos 8572866, this is the first complete recording of Leclair’s Op. 2 Sonatas. Given Leclair’s standing as one of the great figures in the early French violin school, it is surprising that this release completes the first survey of his Op.2 sonatas.

The performers are all highly regarded in baroque music and have all received much critical acclaim.