Concerto Caledonia - Oswald: Colin's Kisses - HiFi News + Record Review

James Oswald was born in Crail in the Kingdom of Fife in 1710. After some years as a leading light in Edinburgh's musical life he moved to London in 1741, where he continued to write, and then to publish, music. In 1761 he was appointed composer of chamber music to George III, and he died in 1769 in the Hertfordshire country seat he had purchased, Knebworth House.

On the evidence of this recital he has great melodic and rhythmic charm, though the pieces are all small-scale. The performances are first-rate, with idiomatic singing from Catherine Bott and Iain Paton, singly and in consort, and lively, sensitive instrumental playing from David McGuinness. There is plenty of variety here - one of the most attractive numbers is a Divertimento for English guitar, played (as is the archlute) by Paula Chateauneuf. Apart from the near-cycle of songs that gives the recital its title, there is a tiny cantata ('The Dust Cart') and a selection of Airs for the Seasons. 

This is a well recorded disc, with admirable notes and texts. it should have a wide appeal, even for people for whom Scottish music of the 18th-century was hitherto a closed book.

Delightful in its blend of Scottish snap and Italianate elegance, and strongly recommended.