Tafelmusik Georg Philipp Telemann 2003

Music for the table, as written by Baroque master Telemann and performed by members of the esteemed Musica Amphion, led by Remy Baudet and under the baton of Pieter-Jan Belder. Only thirteen players, and four or less on many pieces.

Telemann fashioned these works as light dinner fare, and they certainly work that way. But the compositions are hardly superficial; the three works each include five individual movements, each scored for different sets of musicians, and all performed flawlessly on period instruments by the ensemble's members.

So, not really dinner music at all. Captivating Baroque that is enjoyable in every setting, including careful listening. There's four very nicely recorded CDs in an attractive and informative package at a bargain price.

Oh, to be among the gentry in 1730, hiring ten musicians to play your dinner for a few close friends. Ordering a copy of the music from Telemann himself to be played by your hired little orchestra.