Joseph-Hector Fiocco’s music is remarkable for its quality, richness of invention and the liveliness that characterises it all. With a somewhat surprising coherence it achieves a fusion of French and Italian aesthetics, as regards both harmony and melody. His infectious melodies give the listener the impression of knowing them already; singability is always paramount, and the lines are supple and elegant. Now and then a passage is reminiscent of Vivaldi, Pergolesi or Couperin. Yet the firm, inspired pen of Fiocco confirms his stature as a composer of the first order, with a highly personal language full of sensuality and light.

Nicolas Achten and Scherzi Musicali deliver a second volume devoted to Fiocco’s motets, after the 2011 release (MEW1054) which was awarded a Diapason d’or Découverte and IRR Outstanding.