Masques and Rameau

The Canadian ensemble Masques has recorded numerous fine CDs in the last few years. Their latest ATMA recording takes on Jean-Philippe Rameau's complete Pièces de clavecin en concert. The performance is beautifully and stylishly delivered, often containing many lovely surprises. Masques truly captures the essence of the French Baroque style, a quality that eludes many ensembles.

Notturna and Janitsch

Eighteenth-century German composer Johann Gottlieb Janitsch may not be the most familiar name, but his music speaks very highly of his abilities. The Montreal-based ensemble Notturna has recorded the first volume in an ATMA label series of Janitsch's chamber sonatas. Led by baroque oboist Christopher Palameta, the group's performance is nothing short of world-class.