Manfredini - Concerto Grosso in C Major, Op. 3 No. 12 (Christmas Concerto)

Francesco Manfredini (1684-1762) Concerto Grosso in C Major, Op. 3 No. 12 (Christmas Concerto) Composed c. 1715-1718 Performed by Camerata Bern, led by Concertmaster Thomas Füri (1947-2017) Recorded November 1985 at Radio-Studio Bern, Switzerland 0:00 I. Largo (Pastorale) 4:25 II. Largo 6:24 III. Allegro Francesco Manfredini's Concerto Grosso in C Major, Op. 3 No. 12, often referred to as the "Christmas Concerto" (Weihnachtskonzert), is a notable work from his set of Concerti grossi, Op. 3, which was published in 1718. This composition is distinguished by its pastoral character, specifically in the final movement, which serves as a traditional musical reference to the shepherds at the Nativity. Like other concerti grossi of the Baroque era, the piece utilizes a concertino—a small group of soloists—contrasted against a larger ripieno ensemble to create dynamic and textural variety.