BORGHI: 6 DUETTS, OP. 5

LUIGI BORGHI (1745 – 1806 ca)

6 duets for a violin & cello or violin & tenor, op. 5 (1786)

version by the author for violin & viola

Duet I in C Major
Duet II in B-flat Major
Duet III in D Major
Duet IV in G Major
Duet V in A Major
Duet VI in E-flat Major

First World recording on period instruments

LORENZO GUGOLE, violin
GIORGIO BOTTIGLIONI, purple

Borghi's innovative interest in the viola is evident. In his adaptation of the part originally assigned to the cello, the composer highlights the instrument's full potential, never skimping on virtuosic passages and giving the viola a leading role on par with the violin, rather than merely an orchestral filler.

Of note is Borghi's writing for the viola. In his adaptation of the part originally conceived for the 'cello, he emphasizes all of the potential of the instrument, retaining virtuoso passages and making the viola an equal partner with the violin, not just taking the role of an orchestral 'filler'.