CORELLI, Arcangelo 1653-1713

The Score of the Twelve Concertos ... For two Violins & a Violoncello, with two Violins more a Tenor & Thorough Bass for Ripieno Parts, which may be doubled at pleasure. Dedicated to Ralph Jenison of Walworth Hall in the Bishoprick of Durham Esqr. Vol. IId. The Whole Carefully Corrected by several most Eminent Masters, and revi'd by Dr. Pepusch. Engrav'd with the utmost exactness by Tho: Cross. [Op. 6]. [Concerti grossi]. [Full score]

London: Printed for and Sold by Benjamin Cooke at ye Golden Harp, in New Street Covent Garden. Where also may be had in Score the four Setts of Sonatas by the Same Author. Vol. 1st. [1732].

Tall folio. Contemporary mid-tan panelled suede with rules and decorative blindstamping, black leather title label gilt to upper. 1f. (recto blank, verso fine engraved half length portrait by J. Cole of the composer holding a sheet of music), 1f. (recto title, verso blank), 1f. (recto dedication, verso blank), [i] (blank), 139 pp. Engraved throughout.

With early ownership signature "Lydia Catherine Marriott July 1792" to blank recto of frontispiece.

Binding worn, rubbed, and bumped. Minor internal wear and soiling; very small tears to blank margins of final two leaves repaired with archival tape.

A very good copy.

First Edition. Marx p. 203, no. 6. BUC p. 216. RISM C3852.

"Despite the modest size of his output, comprising six collections of instrumental music and a handful of other authentic works ... Corelli exercised an unparalleled influence during his lifetime and for a long time afterwards ... In England, particularly his op. 6 concertos were regarded as classics; they continued to be played, and preferred even to those of Handel, well into the 19th century." Michael Talbot in Grove Music Online.

The first full score edition of Corelli's Concerti grossi, Op. 6, with uncommonly clear and exquisite music engraving by Thomas Cross.

Item #39907

Price: $2,800.00  other currencies