Volume 2 of Discovering the Classical String Trio is a continuation of The Vivaldi Project’s exploration of the eighteenth-century string trio, of its relationship to the earlier Baroque trio sonata (as exemplified by Vivaldi and contemporaries) and of its role as an important genre in its own right, side-by-side with the emerging string quartet. The string trio, although largely overlooked during the past century, was manifestly popular in its day—at its compositional peak (c. 1760-1770) out-publishing the string quartet by a ratio of more than five to one! These forgotten works, some 2000 string trios by more than 200 composers, reveal not only a wonderful amalgam of instrumental techniques and styles, but also a significant, untold part of chamber music’s history.

Praised for its brilliant and expressive playing, The Vivaldi Project is dedicated to presenting innovative programmes of Baroque and Classical string repertoire to both delight and educate audiences. Co-directed by Elizabeth Field and Stephanie Vial, the period instrument ensemble takes its name from the virtuoso violinist and innovative composer Antonio Vivaldi in recognition of his uniquely pivotal position between late Baroque and early Classical composers. The repertoire includes well-known and beloved works as well as others rarely heard. The Vivaldi Project’s educational arm, the Institute for Early Music on Modern Instruments (EMMI), offers professional string players and advanced students the opportunity to study historical performance practices using modern instruments.