Iona Brown, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields - Handel: Concerti grossi Op. 3 (1996) CD-Rip

This version of Handel's wonderful late potpourri of short orchestra works boasts the best string playing the music will ever receive - more recent recordings going forward running steadfastly to Historical Informed Practices complete with twitchy and bizarre tuning and pitches. The superb violinist Iona Brown, who sadly passed away too soon, was also an excellent conductor, and she nails practically every movement with just the right balance of tempo and spirit. The music's variety of colors and instrumental pairings is put across splendidly. While old timers may opt for the Richter recording, the most symphonic Op. 3 of any I have heard, yet this version is quite as good, sporting Handel's delightful music played by musicians literally to the manor - or manner - born. Very highly recommended!